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The women‘s version of the Argentine Open will kick off next Wednesday at the Argentine Polo Association (AAP) grounds in Pilar. Only four teams will compete, as players with high handicaps – of which there are fewer than in the men‘s game, even with women-specific handicaps – are quickly ‘absorbed’ by the best teams. This makes it difficult for other teams to put together competitive line-ups. Argentina is not the only team to dominate in this regard, as seven of their sixteen players (44%) are foreigners.
Among the international stars is Hope Arellano, the number 1 in the US world rankings, whose talent the audience was able to admire in a memorable match between the USA and France in Chantilly last August. Elena Venot, who also took part in that historic game, will also represent French polo in this women‘s open.
It is expected that the title defenders El Overo and La Dolfina, the team of Adolfo Cambiaso‘s daughter Mia, will meet in the final. Millie Hine, who won the Open de France féminin in September, could thus face last year‘s opponent Lía Salvo, who is part of the La Dolfina team. A double revenge could be in store.
The teams:
El Overo Z7 UAE: Hope Arellano (10, USA), Hazel Jackson (9, GBR), Candelaria Fernández Araujo (9, ARG) and Millie Hine (8, AUS). Total handicap: 36
La Dolfina: Mia Cambiaso (8, ARG), Catalina Lavinia (8, ARG), Nina Clarkin (9, GBR) and Lía Salvo (9, ARG). Total handicap: 34
La Hache Thai Polo: Clara Cassino (8, ARG), Milagros Fernández Araujo (7, ARG), Maitena Marré (7, ARG) and Azucena Uranga (6, ARG). Total handicap: 28
Chapa Uno Finca La Rosina: Isabelle Parsons (9, GBR), Elena Venot (7, FRA), Sol López Llames (7, ARG) and Annabel McNaught-Davis (4, GBR). Total handicap: 27
Text by Pascal Renauldon/R&B Presse
WELLINGTON, Fla., November 8, 2024—-The sixth and final medium goal tournament of the fall season begins Friday at Santa Rita Polo Farm.
The third annual Casablanca Fall Cup will feature three teams in a round robin at 11 a.m.
The teams are: Newport (Gene Goldstein, Santos Bollini, 2, Martin Jauregui, 6, Sugar Erskine, 6), SebiLion (Sebastian Mandelbaum, Pablo Dorignac, 4, Leo Mandelbaum/Tito Gaudenzi, 2, Tomacho Pieres, 6) and Santa Rita (Phil Gutman/Rebecca Cohen, Juan Bollini, 3, Nic Roldan, 8, Jason Crowder, 5).
The winners advance into Sunday morning‘s final.
In last year‘s final, Victory Polo won its first tournament of the season. In a true round robin tournament final, Victory Polo (Becky Schmeits, Jason Crowder, 5, Pablo Dorignac, 4, Martin Jauregui, 6) led from start to finish to defeat Dracarys Polo (Chetan Krishna, Santos Bollini, 2, Nic Roldan, 8, Juan Bollini, 3), 12-11. Martin Jauregui was MVP. In the other two games, Dracarys Polo defeated Amaro (Kevin Schmeits, Scott Sorbaro, Sugar Erskine, 6, Kris Kampsen, 6), 9-6, and Victory Polo topped Amaro, 9-7.
Tournament sponsor Casablanca is a longtime supporter of Grand Champions Polo Club, Aspen Valley Polo Club, Santa Rita Polo Farm and 26-goal World Polo League.
Whether it‘s on the polo field or beyond the sideboards, the company‘s goal is „to have you look and feel your best.“ Behind the Casablanca brand is a serious pledge to quality, excellence and elegance. We are „Inspired by Passion,“everything we do is fed by the passion we have for polo.“
The popular logo is the flight of two pony‘s tails, charging the field in pursuit of victory. It is a true symbol of the joy experienced by both players and spectators. Grant Ganzi is Brand Ambassador for Casablanca.
The nation‘s largest and most innovative polo club, celebrates its 18th anniversary with two new upcoming additions to the fall schedule: Nov. 14 WPL Pride Polo Miami and Nov. 15-17 Beach Polo World Cup Miami.
It‘s the first time the popular beach polo tournament and WPL Pride Polo are being held in the fall on South Beach. The Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach is the largest and most notable Beach Polo event in the world. It features international teams and over 120 horses. Tickets are on sale.
The family-friendly club welcomes spectators of all ages. All matches, food and refreshments are free (with the exception of special catered events) and open to the public and dogs on leashes.
Among the season‘s other highlights are the Nov. 23 doubleheader featuring the Legends of Polo Carlos Gracida Memorial and International Cup with GCPC USA playing the Rest of the World this year. In last year‘s International Cup, Spain knocked off previously unbeaten GCPC USA to snap its 11-year win streak in front of a packed house at Santa Rita Polo Farm.
Wellington-based ChukkerTV (CTV Sports) is live streaming the entire fall season worldwide. Grand Champions is the only USPA club that is live streaming all its games.
The Grand Champions Fall Invitational League is geared toward improving a player‘s polo skills at every level. Roster lineups change from tournament to tournament with evenly-matched teams featuring pro and amateur players, „getting the best compliment of players who fit well together,“ according to the tournament committee.
Grand Champions and Santa Rita Polo Farm is the largest and most unique private 102-acre polo facility in Wellington with 212 stalls in nine self-contained barns, two tracks, five climate-controlled tack rooms, vet room, staff quarters, guest house and four polo fields with state-of-the-art underground irrigation and short work arena. The club has 11 well-manicured world-class fields at GCPC and Santa Rita.
Grand Champions Polo Club caters to men, women and youth polo players at all levels. Its‘ expert staff can customize a complete playing experience including horses, pros and certified umpires in addition to lessons and practice sessions as part of its‘ Polo On Demand program.
The Polo School is for all ages and ability levels and operates in Wellington year-round. The Polo School, a 501c3 organization and stand-alone USPA club, is dedicated to teaching polo to all ages, particularly grass roots youth. Its mission is to provide individuals opportunities in polo at every economic and ability level. The Polo School operates year-round in Wellington. For more information on the Fall Leagues or Polo School contact Cale Newman at 561-876-2930.
By Sharon Robb
Photos by Candace Ferreira
Go Rentals is the sole preferred rental car provider for the World Polo League.
Book here: https://partners.gorentals.com/world-polo-league
A Season of Triumph and Dedication
Prince Harry made a powerful statement at the Royal Salute Polo Challenge in Wellington, Florida. In the service of a higher cause, he led his Sentebale team to a 3-1 victory, a triumph that was much more than just a sporting success. With each goal, attention was drawn to the much-needed support for children in Lesotho and Botswana, reached through Sentebale’s work. It is an inspiring example of how the sport of polo and humanitarian efforts can go hand in hand.
Equally impressive was the final of the Barnes Open de France and the Women’s Open. After 31 intense matches in the Open de France and 13 in the Women’s Open, the 2024 champions were crowned. These were two finals of unmatched quality and excitement, proving to spectators worldwide that French polo is played at an international level, consistently setting new standards.
The tenth Ladies Polo Cup in Deauville brought together the best talents of the international polo scene. A purely French team, led by Carole Muir and Alicia Prat, along with the talented sisters Elena and Pearl Venot, dominated the final against an impressive Argentine team, captained by Lia Salvo. With a final score of 10-6, the Frenchwomen claimed victory, once again highlighting the strength of women’s polo.
The 25th anniversary (!) of the Zurich International Polo Ladies Cup was an emotional highlight of the season. For a quarter of a century, this cup has stood for progress and the empowerment of women in polo. Team Los Lobos demonstrated over a weekend full of intense competition that passion and teamwork are the foundation of any victory. Reclaiming the trophy was the crowning achievement of a weekend that will go down in the annals of polo history.
The POLO+10 tournament, organised by Iridike Polo, also made history this year. In a tension-filled final, Team Nairobi triumphed over Iridike after three days of gripping matches, where strategy and top athletic performances set the tone.
Thomas Wirth, Founder and Publisher of POLO+10, extends a warm welcome to all readers.
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+++ Our partners United by a passion for polo – experience the strength and reach of our global network. +++ Prince Harry: The Duke of Sussex plays in the Royal Salute Polo Challenge to benefit Sentebale Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, played at the Grand Champions Polo Club in Wellington, Florida, leading his Royal Salute Sentebale Team to a 3-1 victory in support of Sentebale’s work with children in Lesotho and Botswana. +++ Barnes Open de France and Women’s Open Finals: Promises kept After thirty-one games in the Barnes Open de France and thirteen in the women’s competition, and above all two outstanding finals, the winners of the 2024 edition are now known: Yves Delorme (Chantilly) in the women’s tournament and La Fija Sandbox (Argentina) in the mixed competition. +++ Ladies Polo Cup in Deauville An all-French victory at the tenth Ladies Polo Cup in Deauville: Carole Muir, Alicia Prat and the sisters Elena and Pearl Venot dominated an international team led by the formidable Argentinian Lia Salvo (H8), winning 10-6. +++ Polo Nations Cup Six nations competed in the Polo Nations Cup 2024, with the French team from Occitanie emerging as champions. Led by Isabelle Larenaudie, they secured their place in European polo history. +++ Berenberg German Polo Masters Sylt Glorious sunshine on the final Sunday and huge numbers of spectators – that’s the great result of this year’s Berenberg German Polo Masters on Sylt. Team König Sylt, the local sponsor, came out on top ahead of Transgourmet and Berenberg. +++ Klaus Naeve: On Polo, Sylt and Banking Interview with Klaus Naeve, Head of Wealth and Asset Management at Berenberg. +++ 25 Anniversary: Zürich International Polo Ladies Cup Celebrating 25 years of empowering women in polo, as teamwork and passion led Los Lobos to reclaim the trophy in an unforgettable weekend of fierce competition. +++ Louisa’s Place Berlin Berlin is a beautiful city even in winter and Louisa’s Place knows exactly how to counteract the low mood felt just before the Christmas holidays: with a good dose of wellness! +++ La Irenita – Polo Park Zürich Friendship Cup A game of superlatives. The highest and happiest polo game ever was played Wednesday 24th of July at Polo Park and Country Club Zürich in Switzerland. +++ 4th International Ladies Cup at PoloPark Berlin In mid-July, the POLO+10 / Radio Paradiso team beat Team Ingo Pyko Immobilien 6.5-6 in an extremely exciting final game to win the 4th International Ladies Cup, presented by Radio Paradiso, at PoloPark Berlin. +++ History: POLO+10 meets Fagliano Premiere in 2013: POLO+10 was represented with its own media stand at the grand finale of the Palermo Open for the first time and also paid a visit to the masters of the cult brand Fagliano in Hurlingham near Buenos Aires. +++ 17th International German Youth Championship presented by Ambilight TV Exciting Youth Championship at PoloPark Brandenburg presented by Ambilight TV: Schleswig-Holstein defended the title, while four international teams under 21 years of age shone with impressive team spirit and sporting prowess. +++ POLO+10 tournament organised at Iridike Polo A tournament filled with excitement, strategy, and horsemanship: Nairobi triumphs in a fiercely contested final of the POLO+10 tournament, securing victory against Iridike. Three days of thrilling matches where teamwork and athletic excellence took centre stage. +++ Polo rules: Line of the ball The rule No.1 in polo sports is the “Line of the Ball” – the so-called right of way. +++ Spilanthox Interview with Nikki Benett, founder of Spilanthox. +++ 8th German Beach Polo Championship in Sellin Exciting Polo Action in Sellin, from 4th to 6th October 2024: 8th German Beach Polo Championship enthralls 20,000 spectators. +++ Steve McQueen’s Malibu Beach Home Steve McQueen’s former home on Malibu Beach is for sale at $16.995 million. +++
Exciting Polo Action in Sellin, from 4th to 6th October 2024: 8th German Beach Polo Championship Enthralls 20,000 Spectators
The 8th German Beach Polo Championship in Sellin delivered pure polo action from 4th to 6th October 2024! Set against the impressive backdrop of the Sellin pier, the event attracted around 20,000 visitors to the Baltic seaside.
Six teams from around the world and over 60 polo horses captivated the audience with thrilling chukkas. As is tradition, the tournament kicked off on Thursday with a colourful polo parade through the resort town, accompanied by the „Ostseefanfaren“ band and the Sellin fire brigade. Mayor Andreas Käske warmly welcomed the players to the beach arena.
The sporting highlight was complemented by a lively Oktoberfest in the VIP tent. Spectators in the public area enjoyed the games up close and free of charge, while top Berlin chefs presented culinary delights in the VIP section.
Final on Sunday: Title Win for Heinemann and Maleitzke
On Sunday, the team Del Mare Einrichtungsservice / Stralsunder Möbelwerke, featuring Arlett Heinemann and Patrick Maleitzke, triumphed, defeating Hotel Bernstein / DOHRMANN / Breuer with Daniel Deistl and Justo Imaz by a convincing 12:6 score. Thus, Heinemann and Maleitzke are the new
German Beach Polo Champions 2024.
RANKING
1. and German Beach Polo Champions:
Team Del Mare Einrichtungsservice / Stralsunder Möbelwerke
Arlett Heinemann
Patrick Maleitzke
2. and Runners-up:
Team Hotel Bernstein, Dohrmann Fashion, Jürgen Breuer
Daniel Deistl
Justo Imaz
3. Team Toyota Schütt & Ahrens
Max van Eupen
Svenja Hölty
4. Team Gothaer Versicherung
Karsten Topka
Jeanette Diekmann
Carlos Zalazar
5. Team CAMP DAVID
Jolie Lange
Steffen Lange
Christoph van Eupen
6. Team Ostseebad Sellin/
Getränke Becker
Clarissa Clavey
Johan Funk-Gallardo
The matches were moderated by Jan-Erik Franck, „The Voice of Polo.“ The referee was Christopher Kirsch, and DJ Sebastian Preiss provided the perfect sound.
Max van Eupen was named MVP, and „Florentina,“ owned by Patrick Maleitzke, was awarded Best Playing Pony.
The 9th edition of the Beach Polo Championships will take place from 3rd to 5th October 2025 in the Baltic resort of Sellin.
Text Thomas Wirth
Photography Baltic Polo Events, Maxi Kaiser, POLO+10 / Ruth Yorke
- 30. September 2024
The new autumn issues of POLO+10 are coming in 1 week!
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Contact POLO+10 now to explore the options of sharing information about your high-end lifestyle products and offers, your club insights or tournaments with the exclusive polo market.
With POLO+10, you can flexibly combine print and digital media advertising to maximize your reach. The deadline for print advertisements is 11 October, 2024.
As always, we will share the latest news from the international polo community: a review of the most important events, new polo formats in the USA, interviews, personalities, opinions, and interesting lifestyle and travel topics.
The print editions are published twice a year, in spring and autumn.
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Interview with Nikki Benett, founder of Spilanthox
You are the organic Botox pioneer and have enjoyed success on the market for nearly 10 years. What initially motivated you to found Spilanthox? Why expressly natural cosmetics?
All my life, I have used only natural cosmetics and I’m also a nature lover and “country girl”. My family and I appreciate nature and own many horses and dogs. Nothing would be further from my mind than to produce things that might be bad for someone’s health, or bad for the environment or animals. I also wanted to do something meaningful. And when you’re convinced of a vision or idea and firmly believe in it, it will work.
What makes the products special? What sets them apart from other natural cosmetics?
We keep our promises. The effectiveness of the products can be seen and felt, and it has been proven in independent clinical in-vivo studies (involving a group of women aged 35 to 65). The results were groundbreaking! After four weeks of consistent use, wrinkles are reduced by up to 82%. It’s remarkable. I also develop and thoroughly test everything myself before I release a product for production. I don’t know of a single company that has an owner who is involved like this to such a large degree. It’s really a genuine “owner-managed family business” that still vouches for the quality with its name. And that isn’t a marketing gimmick, it’s real.
How did you come up with spilanthol as a miracle ingredient against wrinkles and lines?
I discovered spilanthol by chance at my dentist’s. He was the one who told me about it. I haven’t been able to tolerate anesthetics since my cardiac arrest and spilanthol is basically an herbal anesthetic. In England, it’s called the toothache plant, for example, and the plant is also chewed for toothaches in South America. It anesthetizes the nerve receptors reversibly, which means that the effect wears off after some time. I then did a lot of research and found numerous studies, including some that covered its effect on skin texture. That’s when I came up with the idea of a natural cosmetics range with spilanthol, as I no longer looked quite as fresh due to my illness. I thought, wow, this is a great natural alternative to Botox or fillers.
What is behind the natural active substance of the jambu plant?
Paracress, which is another name for the jambu plant (botanical name: Acmella oleracea), contains the active substance spilanthol. If the dosage is sufficient, it immediately smooths expression lines and relaxes the facial features. Long-term use also reduces the depth of wrinkles. Its effect on the dermis is generally well known and valued. By now, it has become a popular active substance for the visible and rapid reduction of facial wrinkles. It’s wonderful for relaxing crow’s feet, forehead lines, or lip lines. But the dosage must be pretty high to result in visible smoothing. And that’s what we did.
In what way are spilanthol and paracress the same thing?
Spilanthol is an extract from the paracress plant.
Does it make sense to call the active substance organic Botox?
The media coined this term, more or less. And I like it because it wonderfully conveys the effect of the paracress. Ultimately, this is a gentle and natural way to smooth expression lines and the overall skin texture. Just not as strongly and without a mask effect, and, of course, it’s reversible.
Are products containing spilanthol more like smart instant helpers or do they also provide long-term results?
I can only confirm the long-lasting effect of my products. But yes. With continuous use of highly dosed products, you can minimize wrinkles for a long time.
How easy was it to implement Spilanthox as a business idea? What was the biggest challenge?
Establishing a company in Germany is a challenge overall. Especially as a woman. I could probably fill a book if I had to list every single challenge. But aside from the challenging business climate here, I myself was one of the biggest challenges. Because I founded the company at a time when I hadn’t recovered yet. I was still battling heart problems and the resulting panic attacks. Also, I was still physically ailing in general. But I made it.
Your products are available Europe-wide and now you are also expanding into the United States?
Yes, starting at the end of 2024, our products will also be available in the US, which makes me immensely proud. I’ve never been someone who seeks a lot of attention. I prefer to work quietly and then present everyone with successfully completed facts. No, seriously: the US market needs a product range like Spilanthox. We will also be pioneers there in the field of natural cosmetics with active substances, so we’re opening up a new market there.
How do you work when you develop products?
I think about what could help me look fresher and better, and what might save me time in my skincare routine. After all, my needs are the same as those of many other women. I also keep looking around for natural raw materials that have a scientifically proven benefit for the skin. I don’t care for new skincare products with trendy ingredients that don’t actually benefit the skin at all. And as soon as I have an idea, I go to our chemists in the lab.
What are your personal beauty favorites
Definitely our Extreme Night Repair. This is my knight in shining armor, no matter at what time of year or how little I’ve slept or how stressed I am. With the Night Repair cream, I still look fresh and “de-crinkled”. I also carry our hand cream with me at all times – especially when traveling. It’s the first hand cream in the world with smoothing power that has been proven in clinical in-vivo studies. It’s also great as an emergency lip balm or facial care. An absolute must-have at every polo tournament …
What do you like most about your job?
I love being able to implement my visions and ideas and work for all of our futures and hopefully be able to leave a mark. But being independent also means being responsible for everything and ultimately working 24/7. It’s a lot of pressure and a great responsibility.
How and where do you recuperate?
Definitely in nature. Whether it’s at my house on the Baltic Sea or in the stable with our animals. All that matters is fresh air, quiet, and nature.
Text & Photography Spilanthox
- 19. September 2024
On 22nd September 2024, an exciting auction will take place at Auction House Rotherbaum OHG in Hamburg, where paintings with a polo theme will be auctioned. The two oil on canvas works, titled “Polo” (1996) and “Cartier No. 1 Blue” (1996), are each indistinctly signed on the reverse with “[…] Hey” and measure approximately 60 x 50 cm. The paintings are framed (63 x 53 cm) and offer a captivating depiction of the sport of polo.
For further information about the auction and the artworks, please visit the following link: https://www.ah-rotherbaum.de/auction/lot/lot-1359—unbekannt-20-jahrhundert/?lot=17140&so=0&st=&sto=0&au=17&ef=&et=&ic=False&sd=0&mc=14&pp=96&pn=2&g=1#.
Text: Ruth Yorke, Photo: Auction House Rotherbaum OHG
- 8. July 2024
(this article was published on 30 April 2013)
Hurlingham, a few kilometers away from frantic Buenos Aires, has an air of mystique. A traditional town of English immigrants, this place was visited by royalty, celebrities and top polo players because of a very special place: a workshop. This workshop is none other but the home of the best polo boots in the world. The Fagliano family, who has been running the shop since is beginnings, opened their doors for POLO+10.
Once you go past the Fagliano doors, the smell of leather impregnating the air, the machinery, the endless shelves containing boot molds of all sizes, surely make you acknowledge you are in a very special place, that has a story that deserves to be told. Eduardo and Hector Fagliano, are the 4th generation of boot makers, and with their father Rodolfo, and Eduardo’s son, Germán, they run the shop as their great grandparents used to.
The Faglianos have made and keep on making all their boots entirely by hand, with the processes and machinery they inherited, and without the aid of the latest technologies. Nowadays, in the age of mass production, the Fagliano boots have countless reasons that make them so outstanding. This undeniable appeal has brought to their door members of the English Royal Family, The Sultan of Brunei (who, by the way, was so impressed by the product, that ordered 120 pairs of boots at once), and even the actor Tommy Lee Jones, amongst the best polo players such as Adolfo Cambiaso.
This work philosophy called Julius Bär’s attention: the private bank understands both the sense uniqueness that comes, among others, through the respect for tradition. Fagliano’s essence and long-run heritage, together with the special dedication to each client in a most personal way, is perfectly related to the way that they run personal assets management in the prestigious bank. Thus, this resulted on an alliance, in which Eduardo Fagliano himself participated of the Julius Bär add campaign and they were chosen to be sponsored by the bank, joined together by one commitment: excellence.
Even Jaeger-LeCoultre, the luxury watch manufacturer, in 2011 celebrated the anniversary of their product Reverso (released in 1931) by a special edition with a handmade strap made by this craftmen family. Fagliano’s name is getting more recognized through their excellence day by day and their acceptance is growing steadily worldwide.
The Founder of POLO+10, Thomas Wirth, was able to speak with Eduardo Fagliano, who kindly answered some of our questions:
What do you think that is the key factor that makes Fagliano boots so special? Do you believe it is the quality, the expertise that has endured for more than 100 years, the materials you use….or maybe your (very) singular customers?
Fagliano started with the arrival from Italy of my great grandparents, and, here, in Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, we have been working since 1892, so its more than 120 years of experience. I believe the key factor is the material selection. We always are very thorough in selecting the best quality to make every pair, according to what our clients expect and, of course, by accomplishing to make the whole process by hand, that also ensures the best quality.
What do you and your family feel when a special client crosses your doors? You are famous to have handcrafted boots for royalty, celebrities, top polo players… There must be some nervousness still when you get their visit!
It is such a great experience every time we get a special visit, and we are really touched by it, and it is a reminder of the recognition that we have accomplished through all these years. Nevertheless, we believe that all clients should be treated like kings, and we bear that in mind always.
Which is the most singular pair of boots you had to make by request?
Well, we sure had a lot… some of them include embroidering in leather club logos, monograms, initials, but there’s always a new challenge coming up!
You are three generations working at the same time, in the same workshop, a family setting a honest example of tradition and passion about what they do. Which do you think were they key factors in your upbringing that made you feel the exact same passion your ancestors did?
We’ve been visiting the workshop ever since we were small kids, as our father did (he was born right here), and through watching our family work, we could experience how passionately they worked, thinking about how rewarding it was to do something that would be received by the client with deep affection. We started learning since early age, the very first steps, cutting the leather, or pinning nails everywhere, small tasks that gave us the possibility to learn the job, though you can never finish the learning process, there is always something new to discover. Our mentors always were open to our new ideas, because we always had the same goal: do our best, and keep on excelling the final product.
We know that you studied some engineering too. Did you ever think of starting a separate project or you just felt that more knowledge would complement your craft?
I have studied Mechanical Engineering in the Universidad Tecnológica Nacional for four years, but I have not finished it. Nonetheless, I was able to expand my knowledge in that years, that absolutely complemented my work here at the shop.
For the future, which are your expectations for the business?
Our will for the future is to continue with our quality standards, without rushing but also without stopping the progress. We sure hope our future generations, if they want, and God willing, keep the work with the same passion and dedication that we transmit to them.
And last question, how do you feel about Polo becoming more and more popular these days, do you feel it will lose its “élite sport” essence?
There is a special attraction to polo, and it was always that way. Nowadays, it is easier to start practicing it since amateur levels, the Polo fever has spread widely and it is easier to contact people that are involved in the sport and get you into it. I personally believe that the “elite sport” concept refers more specifically to put always first the principles of purity, quality and excellence in every aspect of polo. From our place in the polo world, we support that principles and hope that people keep working to keep that essence.
“Keep the essence”, “purity” and “excellence”, three adjectives that Eduardo Fagliano used for describing polo, unintentionally described the work that he and his family have been doing for so long. The Faglianos certainly know what polo is about, and live up to every aspect of it, in every pair of boots they make with such care and passion.
About Fagliano
Casa Fagliano is specialized in shoe manufacturing, specifically adapted to horse riding or country activities. The result is an “almost everlasting” product. The best leather, the best thread, also the best soles and the use of certain tools for manufacturing, together with the most detailed production process, gives as a result an superior product that stands by itself.
History of the Fagliano family
In 1892, Pedro and Giacomina Fagliano, Italian inmigrants, started their workshop in Hurlingham Buenos Aires. With much effort and work, their perfect craftsmanship grew famous, which spread throughout the world. Their sons, Antonio, Santiago, Pedro and José continued to run the shop. In 1924, Eduardo Alighieri arrived from Sicily, contributed with his knowledge and experience. Pedro’s son, Rodolfo, was born in 1929 and together with his two sons, Eduardo and Héctor, is nowadays running the business. They have specialized in shoe manufacturing, following the european traditions and an entirely handmade production, and also a special care of quality and detail. More than 120 years of steady experience and excellence, that cannot be overlook by any polo lover.
by María Paula Fernández
For the first time, the awards “The 101 best hotels in Switzerland, Austria, South Tyrol and Germany” were presented for the first time. Celebrities and business leaders attended the exclusive “101 Soirée” at The Dolder Grand in Zurich. The Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg was named Hotel of the Year and thus the overall transnational winner. Other hotels from northern Germany also picked up top titles.
Zurich/Hamburg – A touch of Hollywood pervaded Zurich‘s The Dolder Grand hotel yesterday when the winners of “The 101 Best Hotels Switzerland, Austria, South Tyrol and Germany 2024” were announced at the “101 Soirée”. Numerous celebrities such as Kai Pflaume, Andreas Caminada, Nelson Müller, Elisabeth Gürtler, Julia and Nina Meise, Irina Cerutti and extreme mountaineer Thomas Bubendorfer took part in the exclusive “101 Soirée”, while Heiko Nieder (2-star Michelin Guide) accompanied the evening with fine culinary creations. Hotel of the Year – overall winner (transnational) and thus also Best Hotel in Germany is the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg. The BUDERSAND Hotel – Golf & Spa – Sylt won the Luxury Design Hotel of the Year title and Severin‘s Resort & Spa on Sylt was named Luxury Spa & Health Resort of the Year.
Ingo Peters, General Manager of the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Hamburg, was very touched by the award. “The prestigious award fills us with great pride. Together with our great team, we are committed to offering our guests service par excellence day after day.”
“The ranking shows what great hotels the north of Germany has – especially in view of the strong competition in the four countries,” said Carsten K. Rath, who created the ranking together with his son David. “The 101 Best Hotels” is the first independent and relevant hotel ranking in the German-speaking world. In addition to the opinions of a board of trustees, various criteria are incorporated into the ratings – the IU International University of Munich determines the final winners with maximum transparency, objectivity and expertise. The “101 Iconic Hotelier of the Year” was also chosen for the first time using the same strict criteria. The title went to the charismatic Marco Zanolari, CEO of The Living Circle hotel group, which includes Widder Hotel, Storchen Zurich and Castello del Sole Beach Resort & Spa. “Marco Zanolari is a direct contact for guests like no other, knows how to motivate employees perfectly and creates added value for the company,” says Carsten K. Rath. The “101 Best Hotels in Germany” awards were presented for the fifth time last fall. Next year, the “101 Best Hotels in Switzerland” will also be honored. “I am very pleased about the award and feel honored,” says Marco Zanolari, “especially as ‘The 101 Best Hotels’ is now the ranking of all hotel rankings.” Frank Marrenbach, Managing Partner of Althoff Hotels, adds: “The ranking is well on its way to becoming the Michelin Guide of the hotel industry.”
The awards for “The 101 best hotels in Switzerland, Austria, South Tyrol and Germany 2024” have now been presented for the first time. The winners of the ten categories are:
HOTEL SACHER WIEN (A)
– Grand Hotel of the year / Best Hotel in Austria
The Dolder Grand, Zurich (CH)
– Luxury City Resort of the year / Best Hotel in Switzerland
Mandarin Oriental, Munich (D)
– Luxury City Palais of the year
FORESTIS, South Tyrol (IT)
– Luxury Alpin Resort of the year / Best Hotel in South Tyrol
BUDERSAND Hotel – Golf & Spa, Sylt (D)
– Luxury Design Hotel of the year
Spa & Resort Bachmaier Weissach (D)
– Luxury Family Resort of the year
The Alpina Gstaad (CH)
– Luxury Hideaway of the year
Park Hotel Vitznau (CH)
– Luxury Hotel in Historical Architecture of the year
Hotel Bareiss, Baiersbronn (D)
– Luxury Culinary Hotel of the year
Severin’s Resort & Spa, Sylt (D)
– Luxury Spa & Health Resort of the year
In a fascinating panel discussion on the future of hospitality in the luxury hotel industry, the CEOs of leading hotel groups in German-speaking countries, including Jörg Böckeler (Hommage), Urs Langenegger (Hospitality Vision Lake Lucern), Dr. Andreas Sanoner (ADLER Spa Resorts & Lodges), Matthias Winkler (Sacher Hotels) and Marco Zanolari (The Living Circle), spoke at the “101 Executive Summit – powered by Monoplan” in Zurich‘s Hotel Baur au Lac.
Partner hotels for the major event in Zurich were The Dolder Grand, Baur au Lac Hotel, Mandarin Oriental Savoy, La Réserve Eden au Lac Zurich and the hotels of The Living Circle: Storchen Zurich, Alex Lake Zurich and the Widder Hotel.
Should you require further information, we will be happy to assist you. The first three places in the individual categories of “The 101 best hotels in Switzerland, Austria, South Tyrol and Germany” are as follows:
101 GRANDHOTELS
1. HOTEL SACHER WIEN (A)
2. Hotel Breidenbacher Hof, Düsseldorf (D)
3. GRAND HOTEL Les Trois Rois, Basel (CH)
101 LUXURY CITY RESORTS
1. The Dolder Grand, Zürich (CH)
2. Beau-Rivage Palace, Genf (CH)
3. The Charles Hotel, München (D)
101 LUXURY CITY PALAIS
1. Mandarin Oriental, Munich (D)
2. Hotel Sacher, Salzburg (A)
3. Baur au Lac, Zürich (CH)
101 LUXURY ALPIN RESORTS
1. FORESTIS, Südtirol (IT)
2. Schloss Elmau, Krün (D)
3. ADLER Lodge RITTEN (IT)
101 LUXURY DESIGN HOTELS
1. BUDERSAND Hotel – Golf & Spa, Sylt (D)
2. The Fontenay, Hamburg (D)
3. THE OMNIA, Zermatt (CH)
101 LUXURY FAMILY RESORTS
1. Spa & Resort Bachmair Weissach (D)
2. Sonnenalp Resort, Ofterschwang (D)
3. Familien Natur Resort Moar Gut, Großarl (A)
101 LUXURY HIDEAWAYS
1. The Alpina Gstaad, Gstaad (CH)
2. Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona (CH)
3. Alpin Resort Sacher Seefeld (AT)
101 LUXURY HOTELS IN HISTORICAL ARCHITECTURE
1. Park Hotel Vitznau (CH)
2. Widder Hotel, Zürich (CH)
3. Der Europäische Hof Heidelberg (D)
101 CULINARY HOTELS
1. Hotel Bareiss, Baiersbronn (D)
2. Hotel RIVA, Konstanz (D)
3. Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa, St. Ulrich (IT)
101 LUXURY SPA & HEALTH RESORTS
1. Severin’s Resort & Spa, Sylt (D)
2. Castello del Sole, Ascona (CH)
3. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz (CH)
Louisa’s Place combines the best of two worlds: the typical charm of Berlin’s Golden Age with contemporary luxury and first-class service.
Our privately run boutique hotel is located in the pulsating heart of West Berlin, directly on the legendary Kurfürstendamm. The outstanding quality of this individual hotel is its uniqueness. Instead of the usual units, it offers spacious rooms and suites ranging in size from 46 to 117 square meters. This exceeds the standards of conventional hotels by far. Discerning guests who appreciate not only luxury but also a private atmosphere and exclusive comforts will find their retreat here.
Louisa’s Place reveals itself as a classically elegant city palace that impresses with its attention to detail. From the library with its fine wood paneling to the garden room with its marble-framed fireplace and silk wallpaper, every corner exudes timeless elegance. Almost all the rooms & suites have separate sleeping and living areas, and some even offer additional amenities such as a private workroom, winter garden or balcony. Another absolute specialty is the fully equipped kitchen in all rooms – especially for long-term stays and families.
But what really sets Louisa’s Place apart from other hotels is its exceptional service. Here, hospitality is not a duty, it´s a passion. Every guest is looked after personally, from the handwritten welcome letter to individual assistance with shopping and other requests. The hotel exudes an atmosphere of exclusivity and warmth that makes every stay an unforgettable experience.
However Louisa’s Place also leaves nothing to be desired in terms of facilities. A private pool, sauna and steam bath, a gym and massage treatments ensure relaxation and well-being. A hairdressing salon, a trendy restaurant and the exciting Vesper Bar invite you to linger, while the small inner courtyard with garden is a green oasis in the middle of the vibrant capital.
Louisa’s Place Hotel combines the best of two worlds: the typical Berlin charm of an historic building paired with contemporary luxury and first-class service. The hotel’s host Sven Schimank and his internationally experienced team stand for professionalism, discretion and personal service at the highest level.
For fans of polo, Louisa’s Place Hotel is more than just a place to stay – it is a lifestyle statement. This is where tradition, present and future meet. Here luxury is not only felt in amenities, but also in a unique experience for the senses. Welcome to Louisa’s Place, where the charm of Berlin meets exclusive lifestyle.
Contact & Booking:
info@louisas-place.de
+49 (0)30 631 03
www.louisas-place.de
Text: Louisa’s Place Hotel Berlin
Photography: Cathleen Herwarth von Bittenfeld
An interview with Wolfgang Weiss: Almost four decades of polo passion and the founding history of the Gut Seeburg Polo & Country Club.
An interview with Wolfgang Weiss, the founder of the Polo & Country Club Gut-Seeburg, who has been active in the sport of polo for 36 years and founded a polo facility at Gut-Seeburg near Berlin after the fall of the Berlin Wall. He has collected polo documents with over 100 years of German polo history from around the world, offering a fascinating opportunity to gain deep insights into this unique sport, his personal experiences, and the heritage of polo in Germany. Ten questions from POLO+10, covering a wide range of topics and addressing his experiences, challenges, achievements, and vision:
You have been involved in polo for 36 years. Can you tell us what originally brought you to polo and what was your greatest motivation to become active in this field?
My enthusiasm for polo began in 1987 in Berlin-Frohnau with the sponsorship of polo events. Even though I had no experience with horses or riding, the thrill and aesthetics of polo fascinated me from the very first second. My enthusiasm for the sport quickly led to my first riding lessons, the purchase of horses, and polo lessons in Germany, Argentina, Florida, and California.
After reunification, you founded two polo clubs in Seeburg near Berlin. What challenges did you face when founding the club, and how did you manage to overcome them? How did the former LPG site become today‘s Polo & Country Club with the affiliated Polo Park Berlin, which is now managed by Thomas Strunck?
The founding of the Polo Club Gut Seeburg was aimed at developing a social and sporting background for the game of polo at Gut Seeburg; the Förderverein des Polosports Berlin-Potsdam served as a commercial association for all events and youth work and as a contact point for sponsors.
Over the years, I have freed myself from the clumsiness and restrictions on freedom of action by having a say in the clubs and turned everything into a company, which I will transform into a foundation in the future.
My active sporting days are over, and in Thomas Strunck, I have found a committed tenant with excellent contacts in the polo scene who will continue to run the polo matches in Seeburg.
What personal achievements in polo are particularly important to you, and why?
For me personally, my greatest achievements are not necessarily sporting successes but the enjoyment of the game itself, the memories of a multitude of experiences, the people who accompanied me during this time, and the interesting contacts that I have been able to make in many places around the world as part of the sport from 1990 to the present day.
The polo exhibition you have put together covers over 100 years of polo history. What inspired you to create this exhibition, and what do you want to achieve with it?
The collection and preservation of historical documents began with my enthusiasm for the sport of polo and its aesthetics and my passion for preserving historical artefacts and antiques. I kept posters and brochures from decades ago without realising that this collection would become unique as documentation, as there are hardly any regional „event prints“ left today as future contemporary documents, a fact that is suitable for continuing the polo exhibition.
POLO+10 and the Hurlingham Polo Magazine are the only regular print sources of information about regional polo coverage.
Is there a particular exhibit or piece in your polo exhibition that you are particularly fond of? If so, could you tell us its story?
My favourite piece is a poster for a polo tournament in Frohnau from 1927, which I discovered on a trip to Argentina in Buenos Aires at the flea market in San Telmo, and the 1906 club flag of the Berlin Polo Club.
How did the political change in Germany in 1989 influence the sport of polo and especially the activities at Gut Seeburg?
Suddenly, major hurdles such as horse transport by GDR transit were no longer necessary, and rooms and areas were available that opened up new possibilities for spacious horse keeping and created space for polo. Fuelled by the presence of the English as pioneers of polo on the Maifeld and in the barracks in West Germany, our willingness to invest led to the establishment of a large number of polo clubs in a short space of time, e.g., in Hanover with Wolfgang Kailing, in Aspern by the Kirsch family, we at Gut Seeburg, and two further clubs in Phöben and Finkenkrug.
Without reunification, this development would not have taken place, and for 20 years we fought for land with the Treuhand, the BVVG, and the JCC (New York). The property would not have become what it is now without these efforts. Now we see the children of my polo partners from 1990 playing together with their own children and partners.
How has polo changed and how do you see the future of the sport?
Thanks to digital networking, players and clubs are more closely connected worldwide; contacts can be made more quickly, and appointments can be arranged. International networking creates independence for clubs from associations and manipulation within them.
Polo equals money and time, and nothing has changed in the last 120 years; the documents from the polo exhibition prove this.
How do you promote young talent and what importance do you attach to youth work?
Youth and junior work is the cornerstone of polo and is my absolute priority. From the very beginning, we developed a polo youth programme in conjunction with sponsorship and partnerships to reduce costs, to give children the opportunity to learn and practise the sport.
We still pursue this goal today by training children and young people in riding as basic work for the sport of polo. A golf school with a short course and driving range, flats, and guest rooms round off the country club concept. The work with children and young people, such as in Berlin at our Gut-Seeburg art school, therapeutic riding, and our pony farm, are important further mosaic stones in the further development of the club.
What are your future plans and visions for both polo activities and the polo exhibition? Are there any special projects or initiatives that you would like to tackle?
We will continue to develop and strengthen the sport of polo in Seeburg with the help of investments and a new 10-year contract with Thomas Strunck, thereby supporting Thomas with his openness to all polo players in Berlin and the polo environment at Ladies and Youth Cups in order to consolidate his previous work at Gut Seeburg.
I will continue to promote and support the sport of polo and guarantee this for the future through a foundation.
I will expand the polo exhibition by continually extending the documentation and continue to make the rooms available for company seminars, meetings, guided tours, and press events.
I would be happy to receive information on suitable objects for purchase.
These questions should not only emphasise the passion and achievements of the initiator and passionate polo player but also offer deeper insights into the culture and development of the sport of polo. Mr Weiss, thank you very much for this interview and all the best for the future development of your impressive polo exhibition.
By POLO+10
Photography Frank Altmann / unitedimages.com
