On Sunday, Facundo Pieres, current polo’s number one, and his Royal Salute team won the Royal Salute Jubilee Cup at the Greenwich Polo Club. In an exiting final, Steve Lefkowitz (0), Facundo Pieres (+10), Mariano Aguerre (+9) and Peter Brant (+2) defeated Peter Orthwein (+1), Naco Taverna (+6), Matias Magrini (+8) and Nick Manifold (+5) of team Airstream by 9-8. Supermodel Stephanie Seymour presented team captain Peter Brant with the trophy – a handmade Lismore Cobalt Blue Decanter by Waterford Crystal.
Steve Lefkowitz was named Most Valuable Player and was presented with a jacket created by the British tailor Norton & Sons, located at Savile Row in London. Facundo Pieres’ chestnut mare played in the final chukka was awarded the Best Playing Pony blanket.
Facundo Pieres (+10): “This closing match of the season, here in Greenwich, was electrifying to play and a fantastic match for Royal Salute to win. In the last 4 and a half minutes of the final chukka, Airstream added an incredible five goals, making them tough to beat. The polo and the event were of the highest calibre; and on behalf of all the players, our thanks to Royal Salute for championing it.”
Peter Rizzo, CEO United States Polo Association (USPA): “We are excited to culminate the North Eastern US high goal season with this special event that showcased the athleticism of these talented players and their horses. Congratulations to Royal Salute victors, and to Greenwich Polo Club for hosting another successful signature event.”
The standings:
1. Royal Salute (+21)
Steve Lefkowitz (0)
Facundo Pieres (+10)
Mariano Aguerre (+9)
Peter Brant (+2)
2. Airstream (+20)
Peter Orthwein (+1)
Naco Taverna (+6)
Matias Magrini (+8)
Nick Manifold (+5)