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Polo News

Auckland Polo Club to Host New Zealand’s Top Polo Event

6. February 2024

Next Tuesday 13th February marks the start of the 47th NZ Polo Open tournament in Clevedon with 30 teams competing throughout the week in various grades. In the high-goal, six teams will contest in very competitive polo to secure a place in the renowned NZ Polo Open final, to be held at Auckland Polo Club on Sunday 18th.

Polo is one of the world’s oldest sports originating over 2000 years ago in Persia as a training game for cavalry before becoming a national Persian sport played by nobility. Eventually spreading to India where the modern-day game was established by British soldiers, who can be credited with advancing polo worldwide at the height of the British empire. Military officers imported the game to Britain in the 1860s and soon made its way to New Zealand. Auckland Polo Club was established in 1887, the country’s largest polo club and host to the sporting and social event of the summer, NZ Polo Open.

Founded in 1977, NZ Polo Open is cemented on the global polo circuit, attracting overseas polo professionals to play with the best of New Zealand’s polo talent.

“We have a great line-up of teams this year and the international professionals have arrived from global polo hubs, Argentina, England, Australia and South Africa,” says Lucy Ainsley, Executive Director of NZ Polo Open. “It will be by far the best and most exciting polo played this year.”

Amongst the players taking to the field, Captain of the English Polo team, James Harper will play in the Brinks team while his son Will Harper will compete in the Rodd & Gunn team.

Paco O’Dwyer in the Ecogas team returns from Argentina for his sixth NZ Polo Open and Australian Lachie Gilmore, son of polo legend Glen Gilmore will play for Kim Clifford Distillery.

Jack Spilsbury from Harrismith, South Africa who recently turned 17 is the youngest player ever to compete in NZ Polo Open. Spilsbury grew up playing with his family and plans to make it as an international polo professional.

“I am really looking forward to the Open. I’m playing some nice NZ horses and am feeling good about our team,” says Jack Spilsbury, who will play in the Cambridge Grains KHS team with Clevedon local James Worker, one of the country’s most experienced players Craig Wilson, and accomplished polo sportsman, Thomas Hunt.

Clevedon brothers Edward Elworthy-Jones and Henry Jones will compete against each other while the formidable duo of Kit Brooks and NZ’s best polo player John-Paul Clarkin, of Tiger Polo team will be defending their NZ Polo Open title.

“NZ Polo Open has never looked this good,” says Ainsley. “With plenty of action on and off the field, we can’t wait for everyone to join us next Sunday.”

NZ Polo Open Teams 2024

nzpoloopen.com

Next Tuesday 13th February marks the start of the 47th NZ Polo Open tournament in Clevedon with 30 teams competing throughout the week in various grades. In the high-goal, six…

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Nations Cup Polo Tournament: A Captivating Fusion of Sport, Elegance, and Community Spirit

30. January 2024

In the lush heart of the Mayan Jungle in Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico, the El Rey Polo Country Club recently hosted a spectacular sporting event that captured the essence of international camaraderie and competition: the Nations Cup Polo Tournament. This event was more than just a display of polo skills; it was a vibrant celebration of the sport’s elegance, bringing together teams from Germany, Guatemala, Spain, and Mexico.

The tournament stood out not only for its competitive matches but also for the rich cultural experience it offered. Teams from across the world converged on the field, each showcasing their unique prowess and interpretation of the game, thus highlighting the global appeal of polo. The matches were intense and thrilling, culminating in a nail-biting final where the Guatemalan team emerged victorious, a moment that was etched into the history of the Nations Cup.

Significant support from sponsors like Aqua Live Cancún and Moët & Chandon, the latter sponsoring the exciting Divot Stomp, added a touch of grandeur to the event, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.

The tournament was not just about the sport; it was a social event that attracted a diverse crowd of 300 selected guests, creating an atmosphere buzzing with excitement, sophistication, and a strong sense of community. Important figures from various hotel brands in the Riviera Maya were in attendance, adding to the event’s prestige.

In addition to the adrenaline-packed matches, the tournament was marked by a family-friendly atmosphere, where children and pets were a part of the festivities, contributing to a joyful and inclusive environment. Culinary delights were provided by Sábalo Restaurante, offering a gourmet experience that tantalized the taste buds of the attendees.

The picturesque setting of the El Rey Polo Country Club was more than just a venue; it was a perfect backdrop that complemented the prestige of the tournament, reinforcing its status as a prime polo destination. The community spirit was palpable, especially during activities like the Moët & Chandon-sponsored Divot Stomp, which highlighted the lively and unifying spirit of the Nations Cup.

As the tournament concluded, the anticipation for the next big event, the Copa del Rey, already began to build. Scheduled for mid-year, it promises to continue the tradition of exhilarating polo action.

The Nations Cup Polo Tournament at El Rey Polo Country Club was a testament to the sport’s ability to unite people from different nations, celebrating friendship, sportsmanship, and the vibrant essence of community. It stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of polo, eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to bring people together in celebration of this majestic sport.

Text by Alexa Lozano
Photos: ©Anita Vollenweider

In the lush heart of the Mayan Jungle in Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico, the El Rey Polo Country Club recently hosted a spectacular sporting event that captured the essence…

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AlUla, a hidden treasure unveiled… and one hell of a win for Cambiaso.

26. January 2024

Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has been issuing more tourist visas and has started to develop tourism which makes that area and its hidden ‘treasures’ more accessible to the world. Among these is an extraordinary and still quite unknown site: AlUla, in the north-west of the country, which combines natural splendors – the magic of a spectacular desert with rocks artistically sculpted by the winds – and archaeological riches which are reminiscent of those of Petra in Jordan. A site we were able to discover during the Richard Mille Desert Polo tournament and thanks to the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (Afalula).

AlUla is a site the size of Belgium. At its heart is a spectacular oasis as well as architectural treasures retracing the 7,000 years of history that the King and the Crown Prince have decided to reveal to the whole world, a rather revolutionary approach.

Incredible, little-known heritage

Afalula and its Saudi partner collaborate closely to develop this beautiful region in various sectors, including tourism, archaeology, urbanisation and sustainable architecture, agricultural development, water and energy management, the environment, infrastructure, culture, sport, botany, and training. Afalula, chaired by former foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, coordinates the skills and expertise, (mainly French) at the service of this development and on behalf of the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). Today, AlUla has a population of 50,000, which will eventually rise to 150,000, which is neither surprising nor disproportionate. Buildings rise out of the ground at incredible speed. The priority objective is however to preserve these historical and natural treasures: the Nabatean tombs (first century BC), in the same vein as this civilization has established itself on the much better-known site of Petra in Jordan 400 kilometers away, the Dadan and Lihyan kingdoms (first millennium BC) as well as the prehistoric remains.

The horse will have a large place in the project, as it does in the Arab civilization. Antoine Sinniger, director of the Afalula equestrian project, manages this activity on the French side with the Royal Commission for AlUla. Two equestrian villages will be built on the site: one, a culture center around a Horse Museum primarily dedicated to the Arabian horse, and another, a sports center that can host major show jumping, endurance and polo events. Competitions in respective disciplines already exist on the site and the best polo player of all time, the legendary Argentine Adolfo Cambiaso, is an ambassador of AlUla and has been coming to play with his Dolfina Team in demonstration on the desert sand since the beginning of the project as part of one of the major operations to promote the site.

For tourists, even before the site fully develops, even in a reasonable way, visiting AlUla currently remains a privileged escapade, far from the crowds of Petra. The hotel accommodation is already top-of-the-range and well-integrated into nature. And let’s not forget Maraya, the incredible cultural center, a palace of glass and mirrors set in the middle of the desert, reflecting its sandy and rocky backdrop. It hosts several events and concerts, including one by the Paris Opera, which we were able to attend.

Polo in AlUla: the Cambiaso Garden

In Palermo, La Dolfina’s shirts are emblazoned with the “Saudi AlUla” logo – quite a significant sponsor. Invited since 2020 to orchestrate the Richard Mille Desert Polo tournament, Adolfo Cambiaso has firmly established himself in AlUla’s equestrian project. He has become Saudi Arabia’s Mr Polo. In 2020, at the very first edition, he came with his La Dolfina players (Stirling, Nero and McDonough) to play a first arena tournament on local horses. This year, after selling around forty horses from his La Dolfina stud, which were used in the tournament, he brought an ‘extended family’: the 2023 La Dolfina team with his son Poroto, Pablo McDonough, the ambassador for the main tournament sponsor Richard Mille, and a few professional friends such as Alejandro Novillo Astrada and Polo Ralph Lauren muse Nacho Figueras, and the La Dolfina girls: Mia, his daughter, Lia Salvo and Nina Clarkin – all world-class female players. And let’s not forget the patrons such as Melissa Ganzi, David Paradise, Lila Pearson, and Nicky Sen. In short, the organization was 100% La Dolfina, with the addition of a few local players, mainly royal highnesses of the region.

Of course, in the end it was Cambiaso who won under the colors of Team Saudia, along with Nigerian Sayuu Dantana and American Melissa Ganzi. Incidentally, the team won the final by a score of 9-4 against the Richard Mille team led by its former team-mate from La Dolfina and now opponent at La Natividad, Pablo McDonough. It was the perfect scenario, with the two 10-handicap teams going head-to-head, Cambiaso undoubtedly a little more motivated and, above all, very well assisted in attack by the excellent Sayuu Dantana.

But the most important victory for Cambiaso was the cooperation contract he signed at the end of the tournament with The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). The respective press release states, “The agreement lays the technical foundation for the annual tournament’s success as well as the introduction of new events in the future”.

And further, “La Dolfina will assist RCU in the creation of a new Polo Academy in AlUla, as well as planning and executing training programs for the community, visitors, and Saudis eager to learn the sport under the watchful eye of some of the best coaches and players in the world. La Dolfina will also provide horses to take part in polo tournaments in AlUla”. A good outlet for La Dolfina breeding…

“Among the sport’s most successful teams, La Dolfina counts Adolfo Cambiaso among its star-studded line up of players. Cambiaso and his La Dolfina teammates along with technical staff will lend their extensive knowledge and experience to the expansion of polo in AlUla.

Sure to grab the attention of the global polo and sporting community, as well as KSA-based players and local equestrian fans, the new partnership marks the transformative and ambitious next stage in the growth of the sport, and desert polo in particular.

As AlUla aims to solidify its role as the leading winter destination for equestrian tournaments, the new strategic collaboration with La Dolfina will super-charge the introduction of robust technical developments, attracting players, teams, enthusiasts, and more to AlUla and its rapidly evolving landscape of facilities and purpose-built infrastructure such as the equestrian Al Fursan Village.

Members of the La Dolfina staff will provide high-level advisory, technical and professional assistance to AlUla’s polo community while also encouraging participation in the sport, increasing capabilities, and helping to establish new economic opportunities.

The new agreement comes with numerous benefits for equestrian and heritage sports in AlUla (and for Cambiaso, editor’s note!) supporting the promotion of deep-rooted cultural traditions around horses in KSA; expanding tourism into new markets with a sophisticated and dedicated audience of global fans; generating new avenues of economic development for the community; and engaging local people to foster a sense of pride and positive participation in AlUla’s regeneration”.

In short, a gigantic project which, in addition to the construction of a 400-stall stable on the site, will see the creation of two grass polo fields… quite a challenge in the desert. But one thing’s for sure: this agreement is another great victory for Adolfo Cambiaso, not only the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) on the polo field, but also in the polo business! Let’s face it, polo at AlUla is Cambiaso’s backyard.

Text & Photography: Pascal Renauldon / RB Presse

Since 2019, Saudi Arabia has been issuing more tourist visas and has started to develop tourism which makes that area and its hidden ‘treasures’ more accessible to the world. Among…

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Hope Arellano was honored for 10-Goal Handicap Achievement at National Polo Center.

25. January 2024

America’s latest 10-goaler, Hope Arellano, will be honored for achieving the sport’s highest handicap rating at the Joe Barry Memorial final on Sunday, January 28, at the National Polo Center in Wellington, Florida. Arellano will also be presented with the Hugo Dalmar Award for her outstanding display of sportsmanship and character on the polo field.

“Since before the COVID pandemic, I have had it on my mind to present Hope with the Hugo Dalmar trophy,” said USPA Chairman Stewart Armstrong, who has received the honorable distinction twice. Presented in memory of Hugo Dalmar Jr. and his contributions to the USPA, the trophy is annually awarded to the player who best exemplifies the sportsmanship characteristics inherent to the sport of polo. Arellano is the third female player to receive the award since its inception in 1977.

The 20-year-old Active Team USPA* member has amassed quite the following over the years, collecting countless accolades and awards along her impressive career trajectory. A fourth-generation player, Arellano knew at just 9 years old that she wanted to be a professional like her father, Hall of Famer Julio Arellano. Her first adult tournament at the age of 11 served as the catalyst for her polo career. At 14 years old, Arellano was rated 3-goals in women’s outdoor when she first competed in and won the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship, making her the youngest player to ever win the tournament.

Arellano made headlines again in 2022 for her appearance in the XII FIP World Polo Championship as the first woman to compete for the United States in the international competition. In December of 2023, she achieved the ultimate mark of a professional with the coveted 10-goal handicap in both women’s outdoor and arena polo. Arellano’s achievement also marked a significant accomplishment for American polo; Arellano is the first American woman to achieve a 10-goal Women’s Outdoor Handicap since the legendary Sunny Hale, and the first American to achieve any 10-goal status since Polito Pieres in 2015. She is also the youngest American to reach a 10-goal women’s handicap.

In the last year alone, Arellano led La Fe to victory in the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship in March, winning game MVP in the final (read more here). In the fall, the 10-goaler became the first American to win the Women’s Argentine Open with El Overo Z7 UAE (read more here).

“U.S. polo needs inspiration in order to ‘keep the flame’ of American polo excellence burning,” told Armstrong. “Hope’s achievement of a 10-goal rating along with the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship victory and the Argentine Women’s Open Championship victory are inspirational to women and men all across the USA.”

*Hope Arellano is an Active Team USPA Member. Team USPA is a USPA program designed to enhance and grow the sport of polo in the United States by identifying young, talented American players and providing mentored training and playing opportunities leading to a pool of higher rated amateur and pro players and the resultant giveback to the sport of polo.

The United States Polo Association® is organized and exists for the purposes of promoting the game of polo; coordinating the activities of its member clubs and registered player members; arranging and supervising polo tournaments, competitions, and games; and providing rules, handicaps and tournament conditions for those events. Its overarching goals are improving the sport and promoting the safety and welfare of its human and equine participants. Founded in 1890, the USPA is the largest voluntary sports organization in North America for the sport of polo. The USPA is currently made up of more than 200 member clubs and over 5, 000 registered player members. It annually awards and oversees roughly 50 national tournaments hosted by its member clubs. For more information, please visit uspolo.org.

The National Polo Center-Wellington (NPC) is the perpetual home for polo in the United States, enabling the United States Polo Association to showcase its tournaments, develop American players, and sustain an environment that will retain and attract new players through the promotion of excellence. First-rate facilities including six fields, the Grandstand, restaurants, clubhouse, social club, swimming pool, gym, and tennis courts create the hub in Wellington, Florida for world-class equestrian competition.

America’s latest 10-goaler, Hope Arellano, will be honored for achieving the sport’s highest handicap rating at the Joe Barry Memorial final on Sunday, January 28, at the National Polo Center…

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Saudia Captures Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo Tournament; Melissa Ganzi Named Top Female Player

22. January 2024

AlUlA, Saudi Arabia, January 21, 2024: In a picturesque setting, Saudia won the highly-anticipated championship final of the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo Tournament Saturday at Al-Fursan Equestrian Village.

Saudia (Melissa Ganzi, Sayyu Dantata, Adolfo Cambiaso) defeated Richard Mille (Yoanna Hanbury, David Paradice, Pablo MacDonough), 9-5, in front of a packed house of dignitaries, celebrities and fans.

Following their victory, Saudia celebrated with the prestigious Desert Polo trophy presented to them by Abeer Al Akel, Acting CEO, Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and Amr Zidan, Chairman, Saudi Polo Federation (SPF).

Ganzi, who made history in 2022 as the first international woman to compete in the tournament, became the first woman to win the prestigious tournament. She was also named Top Female Player. „Being the first woman to play here in 2022 was special but it was even more special to be the first woman to win.

„It was amazing to play with Adolfo. It was special. He is such a great teammate as is Sayyu Dantata. This was an incredible magical spectacular tournament. I was honored to be invited to play.“

In addition to Ganzi‘s honor, other post-final awards were Dantata (Men’s Best Player) and Cambiaso (Top Scorer). There were also awards for Pablo MacDonough (Best Goal), HRH Prince Hamza bin Abbas (Most Promising Player) and Yohanna Hanbury (Sportsmanship). The Best Playing Pony awards went to Dolfina Absoleta and Dolfina Shayla.

In the opening round, Saudia defeated SAB, 8-5 and in the semifinals, Dadan 8-4.

Ganzi‘s husband Marc surprised his wife flying in for the final.

„It‘s a great moment for her, she works really hard at not only being a polo player, but being an ambassador for the sport on a global basis,“ Ganzi said. „She has introduced so many people to polo and making it accessible to women and children. So for her this is her passion. When someone‘s passion is executed it‘s a beautiful thing to see. So I‘m real happy for her.“

The third edition of the Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo, the one-of-its-kind organized polo tournament played in a desert, featured a star-studded lineup. Eight teams, double the number from 2022, featured some of the world‘s top players including the 26-goal World Polo League‘s Pablo MacDonough and Juan Martin Nero, was held in a purpose-built desert arena in the Equestrian Village.

The eight teams, featuring a record 24 players from 12 countries, were AlUla, Richard Mille, Saudia, SAB, Bentley, Dadan, Kaybar and Tayma. AlUla finished third and Tayma was fourth.

Top women‘s players Nina Clarkin of Great Britain and Lia Salvo of Argentina gave a ladies polo clinic to promote polo for women in Saudi Arabia. In 2022, Ganzi was the only woman playing in the tournament. This year there were seven.

The four-day desert tournament was a collaboration between the Saudi Polo Federation, Royal Commission for AlUla, title sponsor and tournament timekeeper Richard Mille and La Dolfina Polo Team. The tournament is a part of the commission’s commitment to promote the country’s heritage, culture and arts in addition to its equestrian commitment to reinforce Saudi Arabia‘s historic ties to its horsemanship heritage. The tournament was also held in 2020 and 2022.

„We are incredibly proud to have hosted the third edition of Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo, it was a brilliant occasion for everyone connected,“ said Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). „The on-field competition was magnificent and players, visitors, and media alike really enjoyed a unique experience, one exclusive to AlUla that can’t be found elsewhere on the international polo circuit.

„We are working towards Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo being a world-class competition that people travel to from all over the world. It’s true that we’re in the early stages of this endeavor. However, we’ve reached our development targets to date.

„Improvements were made to the competition, arena, and entire set-up this time around, and we have big ambitions for the future. We are committed to bringing more of the best players and teams to compete while increasing interest, attendance, media coverage and international exposure. We are growing the sport in AlUla and this competition is central to our efforts and progress.“

Throughout the tournament, luxury hospitality and live entertainment with local musicians honored Arabian culture and heritage for the complete desert polo experience.

Faisal Bin Dowees, CEO of SPF, said the strong audience attendance was instrumental to the tournament’s success, pointing out the local community’s enduring relationship with equestrian sports dating back thousands of years.

„Polo has remained firmly embedded in the hearts and minds of the Saudi population,“ he said. „Interest in the sport is as high as ever and we are looking forward to presenting more opportunities four our people to participate and compete in the near future.“

In 2022 AlUla won. AlUla (HRH Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Salman, Mohammed Al Habtoor, Adolfo Cambiaso) rallied from a three-goal deficit to defeat Richard Mille (Noor Abu Khadra, Melissa Ganzi, Pablo MacDonough), 5-4.

Ganzi will finish her overseas competition at the Jan. 26-28 39th Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz along with her son Grant and husband Marc. Melissa Ganzi will play with Adrian Laplacette Jr., Alejandro Novillo Astrada and her son on Team World Polo League. Marc Ganzi will play with Santos Bollini, Martin Jauregui and Freddie Mannix on Team Flexjet. Ganzi finished runner-up with her Bentley teammates Martin Jauregui and Alejandro Novillo Astrada in the 21st Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbuehel in Austria earlier this month.

During the winter polo season, Grand Champions Polo Club, the nation‘s largest and most innovative USPA-sanctioned polo club nestled in the heart of the world‘s winter equestrian capital, hosts a wide range of tournaments: 6, 8, 12, 20, and 26-goal leagues, GCPC Polo School Women‘s Weekly Polo League, WCT Finals, several PTF junior tournaments, World Polo League, World Polo League Pride and Sunset Chukkers & Cocktails at both Grand Champions and Santa Rita.

The season‘s biggest highlight is the sixth season of the World Polo League, the only 26-goal polo played outside of Argentina, featuring some of the world‘s top players including 10-goalers Pablo MacDonough, Jeta Castagnola and Juan Martin Nero, former 10-goaler Gonzalito Pieres, Alejandro Novillo Astrada and hometown favorite Nic Roldan, the second highest ranked American player at 8 goals. The WPL filled the void created when the U.S. Polo Association, the sport‘s governing body, announced it was lowering high goal polo to 18-22 goals and would not have 26-goal polo.

Other high goal season highlights are the Feb. 1-11 Sterling Cup (20 goals), Feb. 1-March 31 USPA Butler Handicap (18-22 goals), Feb. 7-24 $100,000 World Cup (0-40 goals) and Feb. 27-March 10 Santa Rita Abierto (20 goals).

Other January tournaments are the Metropolitan 6 Goal Cup, Aspen Valley 8-Goal and Limited Edition 12-Goal Series. The GCPC Women‘s Weekly Women‘s Polo League also gets under way Jan. 24 and runs through April. It is the longest running women‘s league in the world.

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.

The winter season will be live-streamed on Wellington-based CTV Sports. Grand Champions is the only USPA club live streaming all of its tournaments.

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, now located at the former Pony Express facility, operates in Wellington January through May and September through November. The stand-alone USPA-sanctioned polo 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 has nurtured several junior, men and women polo players now playing in the pro and amateur ranks since its inception.

For more information on leagues or Polo School contact Director of Operations Juan Bollini at 561-346-1099 or Cale Newman at 561-876-2930.

By Sharon Robb
Photos by Alexander Sherwin and Saudi Polo Federation

Polo News

‘Magnificent’ 2024 Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo Lays New Foundations for Future Growth & Development

22. January 2024

– Fabulous four-day third edition concluded yesterday as team Saudi claimed Desert Polo trophy

– Event provided unique experience for everyone involved

AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 21 January 2024: The latest chapter in AlUla’s sporting history reached a fabulous conclusion yesterday as the 2024 Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo came to a close on its fourth and final day.

After four days of elite competition featuring international patrons, royal dignitaries, and the world’s best players, celebrity audiences and sports fans enjoyed a grandstand finish at AlFursan Equestrian Village.

Team Saudia won the Desert Polo trophy as Sayuu Dantana, Melissa Ganzi, and polo GOAT Adolfo Cambiaso overcame opponents Richard Mille 9-5 in the main final with AlUla and Tamya finishing third and fourth, respectively.

With this year’s third edition officially over, the tournament has been hailed as ‘magnificent’ and a ‘unique experience’ for all involved. Following a highly anticipated build-up, it lived up to its billing as the ‘biggest and best yet’, laying new foundations for further development, growth, and popularity in the years ahead.

“We’re incredibly proud to have hosted the third edition of Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo – it was a brilliant occasion for everyone connected,” said Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). “The on-field competition was magnificent and players, visitors, and media alike really enjoyed a unique experience – one exclusive to AlUla that can’t be found elsewhere else on the international polo circuit.”

A testament to the evolution of Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo and its expanding profile and appeal, this year saw the tournament welcome eight teams (AlUla, Richard Mille, Saudia, SAB, Bentley, Dadan, Kaybar and Tayma) – double the number from 2022.

Additionally, a record 24 players from 12 countries competed against the stunning backdrop of the AlUla Desert. For AlSuhaibani, these statistics highlight that the direction of travel is positive.

“We’re working towards Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo being a world-class competition that people travel to from all over the world,” he continued. “It’s true that we’re in the early stages of this endeavor. However, we’ve reached our development targets to date.

“Improvements were made to the competition, arena, and entire set-up this time around – and we have big ambitions for the future. We’re committed to bringing more of the best players and teams to compete while increasing interest, attendance, media coverage, and international exposure. We’re growing the sport in AlUla and this competition is central to our efforts and progress.”

Besides the likes of Cambiaso, Juan Martin Nero, Pablo Mac Donough, Nina Clarkin, and Lia Salvo presenting elite competition, horsemanship, and sporting moments on the pitch, audiences were treated to a series of offerings inside the venue.

Luxury hospitality and live entertainment with local musicians honored Arabian culture and heritage throughout to complement the desert polo experience.

Like always, Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo was held in partnership with the Saudi Polo Federation (SPF), the organisation dedicated to promoting, developing, and regulating polo and equestrian sports across the Kingdom.

Following their victory, Team Saudia celebrated with the prestigious Desert Polo trophy presented to them by Abeer Al Akel, Acting CEO, Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), and Amr Zidan, Chairman, Saudi Polo Federation (SPF). Amr Zidan was present alongsinde Faisal Bin Dowees, CEO of SPF throughts the four days of the event.

Commenting on this year’s event, Bin Dowees touched on its community impact and historical significance. “The tournament has been very well received by a local community whose historic ties with horsemanship and heritage sports date back thousands of years,” he said.

“Throughout this time, polo and equestrianism have remained immensely popular and looking to the future, Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo is sure to be a catalyst for inspiring up-and-coming generations to participate and compete.”

Another catalyst for increased participation and competition moving forward will be the long-term partnership between RCU and La Dolfina, the one of the world’s most successful polo teams. Founded by Cambiaso, La Dolfina is working with RCU to position AlUla as a regional hub for equestrian activities, as well as destination for global horse enthusiasts.

While audiences have bid Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo a fond farewell, there’s more sport to look forward to in AlUla in the coming weeks, with the revamped AlUla Tour welcomes the biggest names in professional cycling from January 30 – February 3 and The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup returns February 10 & 11.

For more information, kindly visit experiencealula.com

© Caroline Bucher

– Fabulous four-day third edition concluded yesterday as team Saudi claimed Desert Polo trophy – Event provided unique experience for everyone involved AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 21 January 2024: The…

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Team Saudia Crowned 2024 Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo Champions

22. January 2024

– Saudia’s Adolfo Cambiaso, Sayuu Dantana, and Melissa Ganzi sealed victory with a 9-5 against Richard Mille in thrilling final

AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 20 January 2024: Team Saudia was crowned the 2024 Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo champions at AlFursan Equestrian Village in AlUla this afternoon, overcoming Richard Mille 9-5 in a thrilling final to win the prestigious tournament.

Following their victory, Saudia’s Adolfo Cambiaso, Sayuu Dantana, and Melissa Ganzi celebrated with the prestigious Desert Polo trophy presented to them by Abeer Al Akel, Acting CEO, Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), and Amr Zidan, Chairman, Saudi Polo Federation (SPF).

Set against the AlUla Desert’s stunning backdrop, the fourth and final day of this year’s edition also featured the subsidiary final, where AlUla claimed third place with a 5-3 win against Tayma.

With four days of action-packed matches starring 24 players and eight teams, the 2024 Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo witnessed a highlight reel of majestic performances and magical moments worthy of recognition.

The post-final presentation ceremony saw awards given to each of Saudia’s trio – Dantana (Men’s Best Player), Ganzi (Women’s Best Player), and Cambiaso (Top Scorer). There were also awards for Pablo Mac Donough (Best Goal), HRH Prince Hamza bin Abbas (Most Promising Player), and Johanna Hanbury (Sportsmanship).

Faisal Bin Dowees, CEO of SPF, said that strong audience attendance was instrumental to the tournament’s success, pointing out the local community’s enduring relationship with equestrian sports dating back thousands of years.

“Polo has remained firmly embedded in the hearts and minds of the Saudi population,” he said. “Interest in the sport is as high as ever and we’re looking forward to presenting more opportunities four our people to participate and compete in the near future.”

Bin Dowees also extended his thanks and appreciation to both His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports & Chairman of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, and SPF Chairman, Amr Zidan.

For his part, Ziad AlSuhaibani, Chief Sports Officer, RCU, added: “We wish to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners and friends at the Saudi Polo Federation for their unwavering support and invaluable contributions throughout this week – both of which played a pivotal role in the tournament delivering an outstanding spectacle. We also want to reserve special thanks to the talented players, official sponsors, and enthusiastic audiences whose collective efforts ensured our third edition brought memories that will last forever.”

For more information kindly visit experiencealula.com

– Saudia’s Adolfo Cambiaso, Sayuu Dantana, and Melissa Ganzi sealed victory with a 9-5 against Richard Mille in thrilling final AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 20 January 2024: Team Saudia was…

Polo News

Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo: Thrilling Climax Awaits Today After Sensational Semi-Final Showdowns

22. January 2024

– 2024 tournament set for grandstand finish this afternoon

– Saudia to face Richard Mille for Desert Polo trophy in main final

– Subsidiary final sees AlUla vs Tayma

– Last few tickets on sale through experiencealula.com

AlUla, Saudi Arabia – 20 January 2024: Sports fans and celebrity audiences are gearing up for a grandstand finish at the 2024 Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo following sensational semi-final action at AlFursan Equestrian Village yesterday.

Against the breathtaking backdrop of the AlUla desert, sporting excellence was on full display once again as eight teams clashed in main and subsidiary elimination encounters.

The penultimate day of this year’s fabulous third edition decided the line-ups for today’s finale – where Saudia face Richard Mille in a main final meeting for the Desert Polo trophy. Polo legend Adolfo Cambiaso starred for Saudia in an 8-4 win against Dadan while Richard Mille scored with two seconds remaining to overcome Bentley 5-4.

Attendees also enjoyed high-quality matches in the subsidiary semi-finals. Yesterday’s proceedings began with a gripping end-to-end contest as AlUla claimed a 7-6 win against SAB with the deciding goal coming in the last minute of the fourth chukka.

Awaiting AlUla in the Saturday subsidiary final is Tayma. Visitors were treated to another classic in the desert as Tayma edged out Khaybar 6-5.

With the semi-finals now concluded, the stage is set for a thrilling climax this afternoon. Both finals are sure to present exhilarating encounters and marvelous displays of horsemanship, skill, and elite competition as professional players, international patrons, and royal dignitaries battle it out for victory.

In partnership with the Saudi Polo Federation (SPF), Richard Mille AlUla Desert Polo has become a beacon of sporting magnificence since its inception in 2020, blending the heritage of polo with the allure of AlUla’s majestic landscape. With each galloping stride, the tournament continues redefining excellence in equestrian sports as a major event in the international equestrian calendar.

For more information and to book tickets, kindly visit experiencealula.com

– 2024 tournament set for grandstand finish this afternoon – Saudia to face Richard Mille for Desert Polo trophy in main final – Subsidiary final sees AlUla vs Tayma –…

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The new spring issues of POLO+10 are coming in April!

16. January 2024

POLO+10 offers the best opportunity to present your business or club to the niche market of the global polo community and their luxury lifestyle fans and followers.

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 March 1st, 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, fresh impulses in Africa, interviews, personalities, opinions, and interesting lifestyle and travel topics.

Be part of it and make your brand STAND OUT!

All media data for corporate publishing and PR can be found at

Download Media Kit POLO+10

POLO+10 offers the best opportunity to present your business or club to the niche market of the global polo community and their luxury lifestyle fans and followers. Contact POLO+10 now…

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Baltic Polo Events in Berlin: Exciting season and German Championships in 2024

15. January 2024

The Baltic Polo Events are in the starting blocks for an exciting season, and polo fans can look forward to spectacular events and thrilling matches in Berlin. Under the proven management of Thomas Strunck, this season once again promises unforgettable moments and breathtaking polo action.

German championships in focus

Baltic Polo Events proudly presents three German Championships that will attract polo enthusiasts from all over Germany and beyond:

7th International German Arena Championship in Braunschweig: this exciting arena championship will bring together the best of the best on the field and promises thrilling matches and breathtaking action.

17th International German Ambilight TV Youth Championship at PoloPark Berlin: The future of polo will be in the spotlight here. Young talents from various countries will demonstrate their skills and compete for the coveted youth championship title.

8th International German Beach Polo Championship in the Baltic Sea resort of Sellin: A unique experience awaits you on the beaches of the Baltic Sea resort of Sellin. The Beach Polo Championship offers a picturesque backdrop and spectacular polo action right by the sea.

International Ladies Cup at the PoloPark Berlin

Another highlight of the 2024 season is the international Ladies Cup, which will take place at PoloPark Berlin. Six women’s teams from Argentina, Ireland, the USA, Germany and South Africa will compete here to demonstrate their skills and offer thrilling chukkas. This tournament is not only a sporting highlight, but also an opportunity to celebrate the growing presence of women in the sport of polo.

For more information and tickets for these fascinating events, visit info@baltic-polo-events.com. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting season and experience polo in all its glory. We look forward to welcoming you to the Baltic Polo Events 2024. It will be a season full of action, excitement and unforgettable moments!