Audi

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Audi Captures Founders Cup In Overtime Thriller; Jeta Castagnola Named MVP

13. March 2023

WELLINGTON, Fla., March 13, 2023—Audi won the battle of unbeatens to defend its title and capture the World Polo League‘s Founders Cup Sunday at Grand Champions Polo Club.

After dominating most of the game, Audi (Marc Ganzi, 1, Jeta Castagnola, 10, Nic Roldan, 8, Freddie Mannix, 7) needed an overtime chukker to defeat Richard Mille (Patricio Mayor, 0, Gonzalito Pieres, 9, Lucas James, 7, Pablo MacDonough, 10) 14-13.

Audi finished the eight-team tournament undefeated with a 5-0 record. Richard Mille finished 4-1.

Richard Mille was playing with a makeshift lineup after losing two starters to injuries in the semifinals. Patricio Mayor replaced patron Gilberto Sayao and Lucas James replaced Alejandro Novillo Astrada.

Down by as many as five goals (13-8) late in the fifth chukker, Richard Mille scored three goals in the first two minutes of the sixth chukker with Mayor scoring the tying goal with 4:10 left. Both teams had scoring opportunities in the final minutes of regulation play but it took a 30-yard penalty conversion by Ganzi to clinch the win in overtime.

„That sixth chukker happened so quick I don‘t know what happened,“ Roldan said. „We kind of got comfortable. They scored two quick goals and came out really strong in that sixth chukker and we were a little bit soft.

„But look, at the end of the day we won and we‘re happy about that because we know we played well and we deserved it,“ Roldan said. „It‘s always good to be on the podium and it was fun to win. Our team feels good and everyone is playing great. It‘s a fun team to play with.“

Jeta Castagnola was named Most Valuable Player. „Jeta is just an animal,“ Roldan said.

Three horses earned Best Playing Pony honors.

Open Sauza, played by Gonzalito Pieres in the second and sixth chukkers, was awarded the Polo Argentino Best Playing Pony.

Irenita Pizza, played by Pablo MacDonough in the third and sixth chukkers, was the World Polo League Best Playing Pony.

Catwoman, played by Jeta Castagnola in the second, fourth and seventh chukkers was the American Polo Horse Association Best Playing Pony.

Until the sixth chukker Audi looked to be in the driver‘s seat with its fast-paced aggressive offensive attack, winning nine throw-ins to Richard Mille‘s four in the first half. Audi had at least a two-goal cushion in the first three chukkers and led 7-5 at the half.

Audi looked even stronger in the fourth and fifth chukkers with its good rotation and positioning on the field. Audi dominated plays and moved the ball well and built a 13-8 lead with 1:02 left in the fifth chukker before Richard Mille clawed its way back to force an overtime chukker.

Ganzi scored a game-high seven goals including six penalty conversions and the game-winner. Castagnola added three goals, Mannix had two and Roldan one.

Gonzalito Pieres and Pablo MacDonough each scored five goals for Richard Mille. Mayor and James each had one. The team was also awarded a penalty-one.

Audi outshot Richard Mille, 21-18, including 11-8 in the first half. Audi dominated throw-ins, 9-4 in the first half, and 17-11 overall. Richard Mille led in fouls 11-9, with Audi converting seven of those penalties (four 30-yarders, two 40-yarders and one 60-yarder).

In the semifinals, Audi advanced with a 15-12 win over Kaia Polo (Larry Austin, 0, Lerin Zubiaurre, 7, Sapo Caset, 10, Santi Toccalino, 8) and Richard Mille advanced with a 14-10 victory over All-Star Challenge tournament champion Casablanca (Grant Ganzi, 3, Tomas Pieres, 6, Barto Castagnola, 10, Jesse Bray, 7).

In last year‘s Founders Cup, Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Jeta Castagnola, 9, Barto Castagnola, 9, Paco de Narvaez, 6) defeated Seminole Casino Coconut Creek (Melissa Ganzi, 0, Gonzalito Pieres, 10, Juan Martin Zubia, 8, Alejandro Novillo Astrada, 8), 13-9. De Narvaez was MVP.

The World Polo League, the only 26-goal polo played outside of Argentina, is in its fifth season with a star-studded lineup that features six 10-goalers including Pablo MacDonough, Barto Castagnola, Juan Martin Nero, Jeta Castagnola, Polito Pieres and Sapo Caset.

The world-class league will run through April 16. The remaining WPL events are the Palm Beach Open which gets under way this week, Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial, Triple Crown of Polo and Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach.

Grand Champions, the nation‘s largest polo club celebrating its 16th anniversary, 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 13 well-manicured fields including nine world-class fields at GCPC and four at Santa Rita.

During the winter polo season, Grand Champions, the nation‘s largest and most innovative USPA-sanctioned polo club, nestled in the heart of the world‘s winter equestrian capital, is hosting tournaments: 6, 8, 12, 20, and 26-goal leagues, weekly Polo School Ladies League play, WCT Finals and 26-goal WPL tournaments at both Grand Champions and Santa Rita.

Season highlights for 2023 are the $50,000 National 12-Goal Tournament, Sieber Memorial, John T. Oxley Memorial and $100,000 World Cup Tournament, a unique 0-40-goal, winner-take-all single-elimination tournament and special events including Nic Roldan Sunset Polo and White Party, Great Futures Celebrity Polo, WPL Polo Pride and Sunset Chukkers & Cocktails.

The winter season is being live-streamed locally and worldwide on Wellington-based ChukkerTV (CTV Sports).

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 thriving. It 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. November. 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 General Manager Cale Newman at 561-876-2930.

By Sharon Robb
Photos by Candace Ferreira

WELLINGTON, Fla., March 13, 2023—Audi won the battle of unbeatens to defend its title and capture the World Polo League‘s Founders Cup Sunday at Grand Champions Polo Club. After dominating…

Polo News

Audi, Richard Mille Meet Sunday In Founders Cup Final; Daylight Saving Time Begins Sunday

13. March 2023

WELLINGTON, Fla., March 11, 2023— Audi will attempt to defend its title while Richard Mille looks for its first title of the season in the championship final of the World Polo League‘s Founders Cup Sunday at Grand Champions Polo Club.

Game time for the battle of unbeatens is 4 p.m. for the feature game. Sunday is also the first day of Daylight Saving Time where clocks spring forward one hour welcoming an extra hour of sunlight in the spring and summer.

In Friday‘s semifinal action, defending champion Audi (Marc Ganzi, 1, Jeta Castagnola, 10, Nic Roldan, 8, Freddie Mannix, 7) looked impressive in its 15-12 victory over Kaia Polo (Larry Austin, 0, Lerin Zubiaurre, 7, Sapo Caset, 10, Santi Toccalino, 8) to remain undefeated at 4-0. Kaia Polo finished 3-1 in its WPL tournament debut.

„It was a good victory and we‘re very happy and excited,“ Roldan said. „We had a slow start to the season but we understand each other now. The four of us are really jelling much better. Sunday will be an exciting game.

„We played against them in the first tournament, we know what we have to do,“ Roldan said. „They are a very good team. It‘s going to be a tough game, but we are feeling really good and confident.“

Audi‘s offensive attack and solid four-man rotation broke open a close first half with Audi leading, 8-6. Trailing 5-4 after two chukkers, Audi outscored Kaia Polo, 4-1, in the third to lead at halftime. Audi had three quick scores before the courtesy change at 4:03.

„I think the first chukker and a half they had much more control of the game,“ Roldan said. „We were chasing and didn‘t get much possession of the ball. But I think we started to organize ourselves better in the third chukker and scored a few goals and were able to get a lead. We were able to turn it up in the last three chukkers.

„It was a tough game, they were a good, very solid team. We played well. We didn‘t make stupid fouls or give away easy goals. We focused on our positions today and it worked out.“

Audi continued to control the momentum in the second half increasing its lead to 10-8 after a 2-2 fourth chukker. Audi shut out Kaia Polo, 3-0 in the fifth chukker to extend its lead, 13-8. Audi had a seven-goal lead, 15-8, midway in the sixth chukker before Kaia Polo scored the last four goals of the game in the final three minutes.

Ganzi led scoring with a team-high six goals including three penalty conversions. „The Cobra was on fire today,“ Roldan said. „He had a great game, hit some good penalties, scored some important goals from the field and made some important defensive plays as well.“

Castagnola had five goals and Roldan added four. Caset had a game-high nine goals for Kaia Polo and Toccalino had two in the final chukker. Kaia Polo also received one goal on handicap.

Audi outshot Kai Polo, 23-15, and led in throw-ins, 13-11. Kaia Polo led in knock-ins, 8-4. Audi took advantage of Kaia Polo‘s eight fouls, converting three 30-yarders and one 60-yarder.

In the second semifinal game, Richard Mille (Milo MacDonough, 0, Gonzalito Pieres, 9, Lucas James, 7, Pablo MacDonough, 10) avenged its All-Star Challenge finals loss, with a 14-10 victory over Casablanca (Grant Ganzi, 3, Tomas Pieres, 6, Barto Castagnola, 10, Jesse Bray, 7) to remain undefeated at 4-0.

The game marked the starting debut of 13-year-old Milo MacDonough, the youngest player to start and compete in the five-year history of the 26-goal World Polo League.

MacDonough, the son of 10-goaler Pablo MacDonough, replaced an injured patron Gilberto Sayao in the fourth chukker of the Kaia Polo game and got the starting nod for the semifinals. Lucas James replaced an injured Alejandro Novillo Astrada. Despite two new players in the lineup, Richard Mille adapted quickly.

After a 2-2 opening chukker, Richard Mille led for the rest of the game. Richard Mille shut out Casablanca, 3-0, in the second chukker for a 5-2 lead. Casablanca regained its momentum in a 3-3 third chukker but Richard Mille still had a three-goal cushion at the half, 8-5.

Casablanca continued to dig itself out of a hole with a 1-0 fourth chukker but Richard Mille seemed to have an answer for everything Casablanca tried in the final two chukkers. Richard Mille maintained its rhythm and continued to rotate well. Casablanca had scoring opportunities but was unable to capitalize at the penalty line and from the field.

MacDonough, who has been playing Polo Training Foundation and low goal tournaments, made a smooth transition playing against the best players in the world at the 26-goal level. He finished as his team‘s leading scorer with five goals in the final two chukkers.

In addition to Milo MacDonough‘s five goals, James had four goals, Pieres had three and Pablo MacDonough added two. For Casablanca, Castagnola had six goals. Ganzi and Bray each had two.

Richard Mille outshot Casablanca, 24-20. Casablanca dominated the throw-ins, 16-10, but couldn‘t capitalize. Each team had 10 knock-ins and Richard Mille led in fouls, 9-8.

The second World Polo League tournament featured eight teams in bracket play.

„This is probably one of the best years team-wise for the WPL,“ Roldan said. „All the teams are very evenly matched. It‘s been very competitive and fun.“

The world-class league will run through April 16. In addition to the Founders Cup final on Sunday, the remaining WPL events are the Palm Beach Open, Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial, Triple Crown of Polo and Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach.

Grand Champions tournaments attract a large international field of players from all corners of the world including Argentina, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Canada, Ecuador, Brazil, Switzerland, France, England, Germany, Uruguay, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Venezuela, Chile, and England.

The winter season is being live-streamed locally and worldwide on Wellington-based ChukkerTV (CTV Sports).

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

2023 World Polo League Founders Cup Schedule

Sunday 3/12
4pm – WPL Founders Cup Final
Richard Mille vs Audi
GCPC 2

By Sharon Robb
Photos by Candace Ferreira

WELLINGTON, Fla., March 11, 2023— Audi will attempt to defend its title while Richard Mille looks for its first title of the season in the championship final of the World…

North America, Polo News

Richard Mille Stuns Audi, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek Wins Palm Beach Open WPL Opener; Doubleheader Action On Saturday

21. March 2022

5WELLINGTON, Fla., March 19, 2022—In the biggest upset of the World Polo League season, Richard Mille knocked off previously unbeaten Audi while Seminole Casino Coconut Creek cruised to a victory over Brookshire Polo.

Richard Mille (Santos Bollini, 2, Paquito de Narvaez, 2, Pablo MacDonough, 10, Juan Martin Nero, 10) stunned Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Jeta Castagnola, 9, Barto Castagnola, 9, Paco de Narvaez, 6), 12-11, in sudden death overtime Thursday at Grand Champions.

Nero scored the game-winner when he picked up a short pass and found an opening for a quick goal run at the 5:03 mark.

Seminole Casino Coconut Creek (Melissa Ganzi, 0, Gonzalito Pieres, 10, Juan Martin Zubia, 8, Alejandro Novillo Astrada, 8) controlled most of the game for an 11-9 victory over Brookshire Polo (Scott Wood, 0, Nic Roldan, 8, Rufino Bensadon, 8, Pancho Bensadon, 7) Friday at Santa Rita Polo Farm.

On Saturday, WPL Bracket II action continues with a doubleheader, NetJets (0-1) plays Richard Mille (1-0) at 1 p.m. at Santa Rita. Pampa Norte Biotricity (1-0) plays Audi (0-1) at 5 p.m. at Grand Champions Field 3.

Audi was undefeated after winning back-to-back All-Star Challenge and Founders Cup tournaments.

Winning the early bowl-ins, Audi jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first chukker with penalty conversions from Ganzi and Jeta Castagnola and de Narvaez goal.

The second chukker was a complete turnaround for Richard Mille, winning every bowl-in, capitalizing on eight Audi fouls and being awarded two penalty ones for a 6-2 chukker and 6-5 lead. MacDonough scored the go-ahead goal on a 60-yard penalty conversion with 36 seconds left after Audi lost its challenge.

Pablo MacDonough and Barto Castagnola.

The lead changed hands three times before Audi regained the lead for a 9-7 halftime advantage.

Richard Mille outscored Audi, 4-2, in the second half while shutting Audi out in the fourth and fifth chukkers. Back-to-back goals by MacDonough cut Audi‘s lead to one, 9-8, and then tied 9-9 in the fifth chukker.

The lead changed hands three more times in the sixth chukker before Jeta Castagnola‘s 60-yard penalty conversion tied the game at 11-11 with less than a minute left. Both teams missed scoring opportunities sending the game into overtime.

For Richard Mille, Nero scored a game-high six goals. MacDonough added four goals. The team was also awarded two penalty ones. Jeta Castagnola led Audi with four goals, Ganzi had three, Barto Castagnola had two and de Narvaez added one goal.

Seminole Casino Coconut Creek controlled the fast-paced game after 2-2 opening chukker. Ganzi, Pieres and Astrada was all the firepower needed for a 3-1 second chukker to take a 5-3 lead.

Santos Bollini.

The well-balanced team never relinquished the lead taking a 7-5 halftime advantage and leading 9-6 and 10-7 after the fourth and fifth chukkers.

Rufino Bensadon came up with a clutch steal and scored with 2:20 left to cut the lead to 10-9. Zubia, playing one of his best defensive games, won the following throw-in and after losing the ball intercepted Roldan‘s pass downfield for possession and started eating up the clock. With 49 seconds left, Brookshire Polo fouled and Pieres converted a 40-yard open goal penalty to ice the victory.

Pieres scored a game-high four goals including two penalty conversions. Zubia and Novillo Astrada each had three goals. Ganzi added one goal. For Brookshire Polo, Roldan and father and son Pancho and Rufino Bensadon each had three goals.

After successful All-Star Challenge, Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial and Founders Cup Tournaments, the Palm Beach Open features eight teams separated into two brackets of four with teams playing within the brackets. The top two teams in each bracket advance into the semifinals.

In the season-opening 26-goal All-Star Challenge tournament, Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Jeta Castagnola, 9, Barto Castagnola, 9, Paco de Narvaez, 6) defeated White Birch (Chris Brant, 0, Lerin Zubiaurre, 7, Mariano Aguerre, 7, Santi Toccalino, 8), 17-12. Jeta Castagnola was MVP.

Marc Ganzi and Juan Martin Nero.

Seminole Coconut Creek Casino (Melissa Ganzi, 0, Gonzalito Pieres, 10, Juan Martin Zubia, 8, Alejandro Novillo Astrada, 8) defeated Brookshire Polo (Scott Wood, 0, Rufino Bensadon, 8, Nic Roldan, 8, Pancho Bensadon, 7), 10-9, to capture the Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial. Pieres was MVP.

In the Founders Cup, Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Jeta Castagnola, 9, Barto Castagnola, 9, Paco de Narvaez, 6) defeated Seminole Casino Coconut Creek (Melissa Ganzi, 0, Gonzalito Pieres, 10, Juan Martin Zubia, 8, Alejandro Novillo Astrada, 8), 13-9. De Narvaez was MVP.

In last year‘s Palm Beach Open, Casablanca (Grant Ganzi, Juancito Bollini, Barto Castagnola, Juan Martin Nero) upset Richard Mille (Marc Ganzi, Jeta Castagnola, Pablo MacDonough, Paco de Narvaez), 12-9. Barto Castagnola was MVP.

During the 2021 WPL season, Richard Mille qualified for a record four championship finals, winning three of them.

Alejandro Novillo Astrada and Pancho Bensadon.

The World Polo League, now in its fourth year and only 26-goal polo played outside of Argentina, has attracted a large international field from around the world. The world-class league will run through April 16. The World Polo League has preserved the highest level of polo and its rich tradition in the U.S.

After the Palm Beach Open, the remaining WPL tournaments are the Triple Crown of Polo and Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach.

The WPL‘s new Coco Cabana features polo fare, open bar, rose bar, cigar experience with Montecristo, Worth Avenue retail Pop-Up, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek giveaways and unique photo opportunities. Guests have the opportunity to purchase individual tickets at $250 per person inside the air-conditioned tent or a patio lounge for four guests at $1,000 which includes a bottle of Veuve Clicquot.

Grand Champions has also added Sunset Chukkers and Cocktails, presented by Seminole Casino Coconut Creek held Tuesday late afternoon on Field One for players and guests at 4:45 p.m.

Gonzalito Pieres and Juan Martin Zubia.

Grand Champions, the nation‘s largest polo club, celebrating its 15th anniversary, is coming off its most successful fall season. Club officials hope to build off that success hosting 23 tournaments from January through April.

Grand Champions is also hosting various levels of polo. The high goal club tournaments feature the Sterling Cup, $100,000 World Cup and Santa Rita Abierto.

The 16-goal league play includes the Grand Champions Cup, Power Horse Invitational and Pedro Morrison Memorial. The 12-goal league‘s Top Pony 12-Goal tournament is currently under way.

After January‘s successful Aspen Valley Cup and March‘s Top Pony Tournament, the 8-goal tournament schedule continues with the Limited Edition 8-Goal.

The 6-goal schedule, after a successful Metropolitan Cup, continues with the Halo Polo Trophy and Madelon Bourdieu Memorial.

Rufino Bensadon.

There is also the Polo School Grand Champions Women‘s League, co-founded by Melissa Ganzi and Alina Carta, for all ages and playing ability held Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at Santa Rita Polo Farm.

Grand Champions Polo Club and Santa Rita Polo Farm is the largest and most unique private 100-acre polo facility in Wellington with 120 stalls in several self-contained barns, exercise track, five climate-controlled tack rooms, vet room, staff quarters, guest house and polo fields with state-of-the-art underground irrigation and stick-and-ball fields.

During fall, winter and spring seasons, Grand Champions Polo Club, the nation‘s largest club and ultimate polo destination with 18 well-manicured polo fields including 13 world-class tournament grade, hosts polo tournaments ranging from six to 26-goal including the 26-goal World Polo League in addition to special events.

The Polo School, now located at the former Pony Express facility, operates in Wellington January through May and September through November. For more information on the Fall Leagues or Polo School contact Director of Operations Juan Bollini at 561-346-1099 or General Manager Cale Newman at 561-876-2930.

By Sharon Robb
Photos by Candace Ferreira

2022 World Polo League Palm Beach Open Schedule

Saturday 3/19
1pm NetJets vs Richard Mille at Santa Rita
5pm Pampa Norte Biotricity vs Audi at GCPC 3

Sunday 3/20
10am Seminole Casino Coconut Creek vs Alegria at GCPC 1
4pm Brookshire vs Catamount at GCPC 2

Monday 3/21
11am Richard Mille vs Pampa Norte Biotricity
4pm Audi vs NetJets

Tuesday 3/22
10am Catamount vs Seminole Casino Coconut Creek
2pm Alegria vs Brookshire

Thursday 3/24
Semifinals
10am & 4pm

Sunday 3/27
4pm Palm Beach Open Final

5WELLINGTON, Fla., March 19, 2022—In the biggest upset of the World Polo League season, Richard Mille knocked off previously unbeaten Audi while Seminole Casino Coconut Creek cruised to a victory…

North America, Polo News

Audi Captures WPL All-Star Challenge Tournament; Jeta Castagnola Named MVP

1. March 2022

WELLINGTON, Fla., February 27, 2022—Audi and White Birch renewed their 30-year rivalry in the championship final of the World Polo League All-Star Challenge Tournament Saturday at Grand Champions Polo Club.

In an explosive final, Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Jeta Castagnola, 9, Barto Castagnola, 9, Paco de Narvaez, 6) defeated White Birch (Chris Brant, 0, Lerin Zubiaurre, 7, Mariano Aguerre, 7, Santi Toccalino, 8), 17-12, to capture the 26-goal season-opening tournament.

Jeta Castagnola scored a game-high nine goals and was named Most Valuable Player. The reigning Argentine Open champion finished the tournament with 19 goals.

Lerin Zubiaurre, Jeta Castagnola, and Barto Castagnola.

Machitos Luis Maria, played by Aguerre, was selected Cria Polo Argentino Best Playing Pony.

Amiga, played by Jeta Castagnola, was chosen the World Polo League Best Playing Pony.

With its‘ relentless defense, throw-in dominance and offensive attack, Audi was able to do what Alegria and Catamount couldn‘t and that was diffuse the 22-goal underdog‘s four-goal handicap cushion in the opening chukker.

„All-Star champions sounds good, I just told Barto we have four more to go,“ Ganzi said.

Jeta Castagnola, Marc Ganzi, Chris Brant, and Mariano Aguerre.

White Birch opened the game with a goal from Zubiaurre at the 7:28 mark for a 5-0 lead to try and put added pressure on Audi. But for the next seven minutes it was all Audi scoring five consecutive goals to tie the game at 5-5. Toccalino came up with a great stop on de Navaez‘ goal attempt with 25 seconds left to end the chukker.

With Audi keeping White Birch contained, the teams exchanged missed goals, before Barto Castagnola‘s effort in the goal mouth was awarded a penalty-one to give Audi a 6-5 lead with 3:06 left in the second chukker. A great goal run by Zubiaurre tied the game again, 6-6, to end the chukker.

Chris Brant and Jeta Castagnola.

„We were really strong in the first two periods,“ Ganzi said. „We set a tone, we set an attitude. I don‘t think they scored a goal until the third chukker. We knew if we came with a little attitude we could take a little fight out of them. They are a really scrappy team. They‘ve been really hard defensively on some really good teams.“

The game was just as defensive as it was offensive in the third chukker with Audi outscoring White Birch, 3-2, to take a 9-8 halftime lead.

Audi broke the game wide open in the fourth chukker outscoring White Birch, 5-1 including three Jeta Castagnola goals, for a 14-9 advantage. From then on, it was Audi controlling the game and White Birch trying to dig itself out of a hole. Audi outscored White Birch 8-2 in the fourth and fifth chukkers for a 17-10 advantage. Never-say-die White Birch shut out Audi in the final chukker, 2-0.

Santi Toccalino and Paco de Narvaez.

„We watched some video last night,“ Ganzi said. „We just knew if we could get on them quick we could break their will. I think the fourth chukker we broke their will.“

Audi came out with a different game plan in the second half.

„We changed, we moved me to back and moved Paco inside the game,“ Ganzi said. „We did that the last game. We like to change a lot. I don‘t think they really anticipated Paco coming through. Paco was like lightning coming through and I was creating holes for him. They were sort of confused because they were used to Jeta and Barto coming through scoring goals and all of a sudden here comes Paco.

„We have the ability to rotate really fast,“ said Ganzi, crediting coach Lolo Castagnola for keeping the team‘s head straight. „We‘re not afraid to change. We‘re capable of all four guys playing all four positions and that confuses our opponents.“

Barto Castagnola and Jeta Castagnola.

The game was reminiscent of the battles between Audi and White Birch in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s. Wally Ganzi and Peter Brant, the fathers and mentors of Marc Ganzi and Chris Brant, used to battle in Saratoga.

In addition to Jeta Castagnola‘s nine goals, Audi got balanced scoring from its lineup. De Narvaez scored three goals and Ganzi and Barto Castagnola each had two goals. Audi was also awarded a penalty-one.

Toccalino led White Birch with four goals. Zubiaurre had two goals and Brant and Aguerre each had one goal.

Richard Mille, eliminated early by Audi in overtime, was defending champion of the All-Star Challenge with three of the four winning Audi players. The foursome of Marc Ganzi, Jeta Castagnola, Pablo MacDonough and Paco de Narvaez defeated Hawaii Polo in last year‘s final.

Mariano Aguerre and Paco de Narvaez.

The World Polo League, now in its fourth year, is the only 26-goal polo played outside of Argentina. It has attracted a large international field from around the world.

The world-class league will run through April 16. The World Polo League is preserving the highest level of polo and its rich tradition in the U.S.

In addition to the All-Star Challenge, the remaining WPL events are Sunday‘s inaugural Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial at 4 p.m.; Founders Cup, which starts this week; Palm Beach Open, March 9-27; Triple Crown of Polo, March 23-April 16 and Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach, April 29-May 1.

Fans packed the sidelines for the exciting WPL final.

Grand Champions has added Sunset Chukkers and Cocktails, presented by Seminole Casino Coconut Creek held Tuesday late afternoon on Field One for players and guests.

Grand Champions, the nation‘s largest polo club, celebrating its 15th anniversary, is coming off its most successful fall season. Club officials hope to build off that success when it hosts 23 tournaments from January through April.

The high goal club tournaments feature the Sterling Cup, $100,000 World Cup and Santa Rita Abierto.

MVP Jeta Castagnola.

The 16-goal league play includes the Grand Champions Cup, Mar. 8-26 Power Horse Invitational and Mar. 29-Apr. 16 Pedro Morrison Memorial.

The 12-goal league is currently underway with the Sieber Memorial Trophy; $50,000 National 12-Goal and Mar. 8-26 Top Pony 12-Goal.

After January‘s successful Aspen Valley Cup, the 8-goal tournament schedule continues with the Top Pony 8-Goal and Mar. 8-26 Limited Edition 8-Goal.

Cria Polo Argentino Best Playing Pony Machitos Luis Maria played by Mariano Aguerre.

The 6-goal schedule, after a successful Metropolitan Cup, continues with the Halo Polo Trophy and Mar. 8-26 Madelon Bourdieu Memorial.

There is also the Polo School Grand Champions Women‘s League, co-founded by Melissa Ganzi and Alina Carta, for all ages and playing ability held Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at Santa Rita Polo Farm.

World Polo League Best Playing Pony Amiga, played by Jeta Castagnola.

During fall, winter and spring seasons, Grand Champions Polo Club, the nation‘s largest club with 13 well-manicured, world-class fields at GCPC and Santa Rita Polo Farm, hosts polo tournaments ranging from six to 26-goal including the 26-goal World Polo League in addition to special events.

By Sharon Robb
Photos by Candace Ferreira

North America, Polo News

Audi Wins Overtime Thriller In WPL All-Star Challenge To Advance Into Thursday Semifinals

23. February 2022

WELLINGTON, Fla., February 22, 2022—In the most exciting game of the World Polo League All-Star Challenge opening round, Audi secured the fourth and final spot for Thursday‘s semifinals.

Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Jeta Castagnola, 9, Barto Castagnola, 9, Paco de Narvaez, 6) rallied in the second half to defeat defending champion Richard Mille (Santos Bollini, 2, Grant Ganzi, 3, Pablo MacDonough, 10, Juan Martin Nero, 10), 10-9, in overtime Sunday at Grand Champions Polo Club.

Audi joins Catamount, White Birch and Seminole Casino Coconut Creek in Thursday‘s semifinals. Catamount plays White Birch at 11 a.m. on Field 3 and Audi plays Seminole Casino Coconut Creek at 4 p.m. on Field 1.

With 6:56 left in overtime, Barto Castagnola quickly recovered from a rideoff to score the winning goal. Castagnola finished with three goals and earned Most Valuable Player honors.

The WPL Best Playing Pony was Irenito Sinforosa, played by MacDonough in the second and sixth chukkers.

The Grand Champions Best Playing Pony was Sunriver, played by Jeta Castagnola in the first and sixth chukkers.

Juan Martin Nero and Jeta Castagnola.

Richard Mille opened the first chukker with a 1-0 lead on handicap. Audi had two scoring opportunities early, missing a penalty conversion and having a goal nullified on a right-of-way penalty. MacDonough scored with 1:34 left for a 2-0 lead.

Nero scored early in the second chukker for a 3-0 advantage. Three unanswered goals by brothers Barto Castagnola (two goals) and Jeta Castagnola (one goal) enabled Audi to even the score at 3-3. MacDonough came back with a goal through defenders with 22 seconds left for a 4-3 lead.

With Richard Mille controlling 80 percent of the throw-ins, Richard Mille outscored Audi, 2-1, in the third chukker for a 6-4 halftime lead.

Ganzi scored with 5:27 left to give Richard Mille a 7-4 advantage in the fourth chukker but the lead was shortlived. Three unanswered goals including Jeta Castagnola‘s goal with five seconds enabled Audi to tie the game 7-7 at the end of the chukker.

Marc Ganzi and Grant Ganzi.

Audi‘s defense was relentless in the second half frustrating Richard Mille‘s offensive attack. By the end of the fifth chukker, Audi had ten knock-ins.

Audi and Richard Mille exchanged goals in the fifth chukker, the first by Marc Ganzi with 6:43 left for an 8-7 lead and the other by Nero with 2:35 remaining to end another chukker tied, 8-8.

The sixth chukker continued the defensive battle with great defensive goal stops and missed scoring opportunities by both teams. Jeta Castagnola opened the chukker with a 40-yard penalty conversion at the 7:22 mark for a 9-8 lead.

Audi saw its hopes of winning in regulation end when Grant Ganzi backhanded the ball which MacDonough then turned quickly to retrieve and put through the goal posts with five seconds remaining to send the game into overtime at 9-9.

Audi got balanced scoring from its lineup. In addition to Barto Castagnola‘s three goals, Jeta Castagnola scored a team-high four goals, Ganzi had two goals and De Narvaez added one.

Grant Ganzi, Juan Martin Nero, and Jeta Castagnola.

It was Jeta Castagnola‘s second game of the day. Earlier, he substituted for an injured Francisco Elizalde in the La Fe lineup and scored a team-high four goals in their 13-11 loss to Pilot in the C.V. Whitney Cup at International Polo Club.

Richard Mille‘s two 10-goalers combined for seven goals. Nero had a team-high four goals and MacDonough had three. Ganzi had one. The team picked up one goal on handicap.

Richard Mille was the defending champion of the All-Star Challenge. The foursome of Marc Ganzi, Jeta Castagnola, Pablo MacDonough and Paco de Narvaez defeated Hawaii Polo Life (Chris Dawson, Poroto Cambiaso, Jejo Taranco, Adolfo Cambiaso), 12-8. MacDonough was MVP.

The World Polo League, now in its fourth year, is the only 26-goal polo played outside of Argentina. It has attracted a large international field from around the world.

Barto Castagnola.

The world-class league will run through April 16. The World Polo League is preserving the highest level of polo and its rich tradition in the U.S. The WPL has its own set of simpler fan-friendly rules to improve the flow of the game and world-class umpires.

In addition to the All-Star Challenge, the remaining WPL events are the inaugural Tommy Hitchcock Legacy Memorial, Feb. 27; Founders Cup, Feb. 23-March 13; Palm Beach Open, March 9-27; Triple Crown of Polo, March 23-April 16 and Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach, April 29-May 1.

Grand Champions has also added Sunset Chukkers and Cocktails, presented by Seminole Casino Coconut Creek held Tuesday late afternoon on Field One for players and guests.

Pablo MacDonough.

The high goal club tournaments feature the Sterling Cup, $100,000 World Cup and Santa Rita Abierto.

The 16-goal league play includes the Grand Champions Cup, Mar. 8-26 Power Horse Invitational and Mar. 29-Apr. 16 Pedro Morrison Memorial.

The 12-goal league is currently underway with the Sieber Memorial Trophy, the $50,000 National 12-Goal which gets under way this week and Mar. 8-26 Top Pony 12-Goal.

After January‘s successful Aspen Valley Cup, the 8-goal tournament schedule continues with the Top Pony 8-Goal and Mar. 8-26 Limited Edition 8-Goal.

Paco de Narvaez, Santos Bollini, and Pablo MacDonough.

The 6-goal schedule features the Metropolitan Cup, also underway; Halo Polo Trophy and Mar. 8-26 Madelon Bourdieu Memorial.

There is also the Polo School Grand Champions Women‘s League, co-founded by Melissa Ganzi and Alina Carta, for all ages and playing ability held Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at Santa Rita Polo Farm.

Coco Cabana VIP tent and World Polo League Stadium.

By Sharon Robb
Photos by Candace Ferreira

World Polo League All-Star Challenge 2022 Schedule

Thursday 2/24
Semifinals

11am Catamount vs White Birch at GCPC 3
4pm Audi vs Seminole Casino Coconut Creek at GCPC 1

Saturday 2/26
4pm All-Star Challenge Final

WELLINGTON, Fla., February 22, 2022—In the most exciting game of the World Polo League All-Star Challenge opening round, Audi secured the fourth and final spot for Thursday‘s semifinals. Audi (Marc…

North America, Polo News

2021 East Coast Open Presented by Audi

26. August 2021

BUY SUNDAY TICKETS HERE

Greenwich Polo Club Is Proud To Welcome Back Audi of America And The Tri-State Audi Dealers As The Presenting Sponsor Of The 2021 East Coast Open Polo Championship

(Greenwich, CT) Greenwich Polo Club is proud to welcome back Audi of America and the Tri-State Audi Dealers as the presenting sponsor of the 2021 East Coast Open Polo Championship for a sixth season.

This year‘s high-goal polo tournament will take place August 29–September 12 at Greenwich Polo Club in Greenwich, CT. Considered to be one of the most prestigious polo competitions in the United States, the East Coast Open features some of the world’s best polo teams and players, who will compete in a three-week, 20-goal tournament.

„Greenwich Polo Club is committed to supporting polo in the Northeast, especially at the high goal level, and Audi is a key partner that makes this 20-goal tournament possible,“ said Leighton Jordan, Managing Director of Greenwich Polo Club and U.S Polo Association Northeast Circuit Governor.

The 2021 edition of the East Coast Open will host four teams competing for the historic 116-year-old Perry Trophy, including the 20-goal Audi Polo Team. In the highest handicap position for Audi Polo Team will be Hall of Fame player Mariano Aguerre (8), alongside Chris Brant (A), Peke Gonzalez (6), and Pablo Llorente (6). The Audi Polo Team has had previous success in the East Coast Open, having most recently won the Championship in 2018.

„This continued partnership between Audi and Greenwich Polo Club not only affirms Audi‘s commitment to and support of the East Coast Open tournament, but it also provides an organic and exciting platform for our brand to engage with fans of the sport,“ said Jennifer Kircher, Audi Regional Marketing Manager. “We are excited to be a part of this prestigious event and to cheer on the Audi Polo Team.”

Hosted at the historic Greenwich Polo Club, the 20-goal East Coast Open is the highest handicap annual polo tournament of the United States’ summer season. Sunday public matches will take place for all three weekends of the tournament: August 29, September 5 and September 12.

Audi is delighted to extend Audi owners exclusive complimentary car pass tickets (must arrive in an Audi vehicle) for west lawn seating in front of the Audi Tent on the first two Sundays of the tournament, August 29 and September 5. Audi owners may reserve their complimentary car pass at the link below. Additionally Audi hopes to see everyone on September 12th at the East Coast Open’s Championship match.

Exclusive Audi Owners Access Tickets (8/29+ 9/5)

Sunday tickets for all matches are currently available to the public. Visit www.GreenwichPoloClub.com for more information and to book your ticket online.

About Audi of America
At Audi of America, we believe the Future is Electric. Our U.S. model lineup will be 30 percent electrified, including fully electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, by 2025, and globally we are committed to net CO2 neutrality by 2050. In 2020, Audi sold 186,620 vehicles in the U.S., and this year, we look forward to the next chapter in our journey to reinvent premium mobility with the arrivals of the fully electric Audi e-tron GT and Audi Q4 e-tron. Learn more about who we are and how we’re working to create a more electric, innovative, and inclusive future at audiusa.com or media.audiusa.com

About Greenwich Polo Club
Greenwich Polo Club was established in 1981 and is recognized as one of the top high-goal polo venues in the world. Known for its unmatched roster of legendary teams, professional players, and champion equine athletes GPC hosts some of the most important tournaments in polo, including the prestigious East Coast Open.

The club is home to the legendary White Birch polo team, one of the most successful in history, having won the most high-goal polo tournaments of any team over the course of the past 25 years, including the US Open Polo Championship in 2005.

Some of the world’s best players have played at Greenwich Polo Club, including Mariano Aguerre, Facundo Pieres, Hilario Ulloa, Nacho Figueras and many others. Each Spring players descend on Greenwich with their strings of elite horses to compete for some of polo’s most prestigious titles.

BUY SUNDAY TICKETS HERE Greenwich Polo Club Is Proud To Welcome Back Audi of America And The Tri-State Audi Dealers As The Presenting Sponsor Of The 2021 East Coast…

North America, Polo News

Aspen Valley Wins USPA National 20-Goal Opener

20. November 2019

The USPA National 20-Goal Championship opener lived up to expectations Tuesday at Grand Champions Polo Club.

Playing together for the first time, Aspen Valley (Grant Ganzi, 3, Juancito Bollini, 4, Horacio Heguy, 6, Jeff Blake, 6) knocked Flexjet (Melissa Ganzi, 0, Pablo Spinacci, 6, Camilo Castagnola, 6T, Juan Bollini, 5) out of the six-team, single-elimination tournament with a high-scoring 16-13 victory.

Aspen Valley now advances into Saturday‘s semifinal round against Sebucan (Pablo Pulido, 2, Kris Kampsen, 6, Jason Crowder, 6, Tommy Biddle, 5) at 10 a.m. The winner advances into the Nov. 27th final at 3 p.m. „Sebucan is a really tough team,“ Grant Ganzi said. „They are four guys that go. Hopefully, we will get another practice in with the horses before then.“

In Wednesday action, Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Sugar Erskine, 6, Nic Roldan, 8, Brandon Phillips, 4) takes on Montemar (Mackie Weisz, 2T, Pelon Escapite, 5, Pablo Dorignac, 5, Sterling Giannico, 4) at 3:30 p.m. „The game spoke for itself,“ Ganzi said. „We just kept it simple. We were all getting the ball to each other and eventually it worked out. We played for each other and we did what we wanted to do.“

Aspen Valley started picking up steam in the second chukker winning most of the throw-ins and outscoring Flexjet 3-1, to take a 5-4 lead. The momentum continued in Aspen Valley‘s favor, leading at the half, 9-6, and 10-8 after the fourth chukker. Flexjet started clawing its way back in the fifth chukker, outscoring Aspen Valley, 4-2, to trail by only one, 13-12. With 6:30 left, Castagnola scored to tie the game at 13-13. The rally was shortlived, however, with Aspen Valley outscoring Flexjet, 3-1, in the final chukker with two goals from Heguy and one from Ganzi off the throw-in for three unanswered goals. „Today was perfect,“ said Heguy, a six-time Argentine Open winner. „The field was perfect, the weather was perfect. The team went well and we had a lot of fun. „The match was nice to watch and to play,“ Heguy said. „I am happy with the team. It was the first time we played together and we did well. Camilo was very good but our team was strong and we did well.“

Aspen Valley got balanced scoring with Ganzi, Bollini, Heguy and Blake each scoring four goals. „It was the first time I played with Horacio Heguy,“ Bollini said. „There is a learning curve the first two to three chukkers. He is a great player and it‘s always fun to play with one of the greats. My job was to learn as much as I could. „It was key we won the throw-ins because you are starting each play in attack,“ Bollini said. „As long as you have possession of the game you have a chance of winning always. That was a fun game. This tournament is exciting to play.“ In addition to Castagnola‘s five goals, Melissa Ganzi and Spinacci each had three goals. The past two years Casablanca has captured the coveted title.

In 2018, Casablanca defended its title in a tightly-contested game. Casablanca (Grant Ganzi, 2, Whistle Uys, 4, Julio Gracida, 4, Pablo Spinacci, 6) defeated Flexjet (Melissa Ganzi, 0, Jason Crowder, 6, Jeff Blake, 6, Juan Bollini, 5), 11-9. Spinacci was MVP. In 2017, Casablanca (Grant Ganzi, Juancito Bollini, Mike Azzaro, Jeff Blake) defeated defending champion Flexjet (Melissa Ganzi, Jason Crowder, Pablo Dorignac, Juan Bollini), 13-6. Blake was MVP. Casablanca, one of the winningest teams in club history, ended up winning four of six tournaments during the 2017 fall season. The National Twenty Goal was first played at the Royal Palm Polo Club in Boca Raton in 2007. Won by Houston-based team BTA (Chrys Beal, Mariano Gonzalez, Francisco Lanusse, Santiago Trotz) in a narrow victory over Audi 13-12, the trophy then went on hiatus until 2011. Grand Champions resurrected the tournament and it has been played there ever since. The tournament has consistently fielded four to six competitive teams over the past seven years. Audi has dominated the competition with three total wins, including back-to-back victories in 2012 and 2013 with an identical team (Marc Ganzi, Carlos Gracida Jr., Nic Roldan, Carlos Gracida). With four titles to his name, Nic Roldan holds the record for most National Twenty Goal tournament wins. In addition to Casablanca, past winners of the USPA National 20-Goal Tournament include BTA, KIG, Audi, Flight Options and Flexjet.

The inaugural Wellington Open, the club‘s second 20-goal tournament, will be held Friday at 10 a.m. with the final on Sunday also at 10 a.m. The tournament fills the void left by the USPA North American Cup now at Aspen Valley Polo Club. The winners of the first five 2019 medium goal fall tournaments at Grand Champions were: Casablanca (Marc Ganzi, Grant Ganzi, Nic Roldan, Pierre Henri Ngoumou), Pedro Morrison Memorial; Newport (Gene Goldstein, Jason Crowder, Kris Kampsen, Juan Bollini), Fall Plates Tournament; Sebucan (Santos Bollini, Pablo Pulido, Nic Roldan, Kris Kampsen), Fall Classic; Flexjet (Melissa Ganzi, Kris Kampsen, Pablo Spinacci, Juan Bollini), Tackeria Invitational; and Casablanca (Grant Ganzi, Juancito Bollini, Brandon Phillips, Jason Crowder), US Trust Cup. The Polo Gear Challenge final, was postponed by rain.

During the 2019 fall season, the nation‘s largest and busiest polo club, hosts both medium and high goal polo. It is highlighted by the International Cup featuring Team USA against France; Legends of Polo Carlos Gracida Memorial, inaugural Wellington Open 20 and USPA National 20 Goal Tournaments. The well-organized fall tournaments attract players from all over the United States and world including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, England, France, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Uruguay, Switzerland, Nigeria and South Africa.

Grand Champions had its finest fall season in club history last year. It was the only club in the nation to stage two USPA-sanctioned 20-goal fall tournaments. The fall season serves as a tuneup for the winter season for players and green horses. The winter season will feature the second season of the highly-successful 26-goal World Polo League at Grand Champions and Valiente Polo Farm with the best polo players in the world. 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. Club owners Marc and Melissa Ganzi, both accomplished players, take pride in teaching and sharing the exciting sport of polo with anyone interested in learning. The husband and wife team are coming off their most successful and historical summer season at Grand Champions‘ sister club Aspen Valley Polo Club.

By Sharon Robb

2019 Grand Champions Fall Schedule

USPA National 20 Goal
Wednesday 11/20 3:30. p.m
Audi vs Montemar

Saturday 11/23 10 a.m.
Semifinal Game 1
Aspen Valley vs Sebucan

12 p.m. Semifinal Game 2
Wednesday winner vs French Team

Wednesday 11/27 3 p.m.
USPA National 20 Goal Open Final

Wellington 20 Goal Open
Friday 11/22 10 a.m.

Sunday 11/24 10 a.m Final

Nov. 30 1 p.m.
Legends of Polo Carlos Gracida Memorial

Nov. 30 3 p.m.
2019 International Cup, USA vs. France

www.gcpolo.com

© Thomas Wirth

The USPA National 20-Goal Championship opener lived up to expectations Tuesday at Grand Champions Polo Club. Playing together for the first time, Aspen Valley (Grant Ganzi, 3, Juancito Bollini, 4,…

North America, Polo News

Palm Beach Equine captures Santa Rita Abierto

29. May 2019

Palm Beach Equine won its first tournament of the spring season at windswept Grand Champions Polo Club. In front of a packed house, Palm Beach Equine (Brandon Phillips, 4, Juan Bollini, 5, Alejandro Novillo Astrada, 8, Scott Swerdlin, 0) won a hardfought 10-9 game against Audi (Lucas Lalor, 5, Sugar Erskine, 6, Marc Ganzi, 2, Jared Zenni, 6).

Argentine 8-goaler Alejandro Novillo Astrada scored the winning goal with 1:45 left in the game. Astrada finished with four goals and was named Most Valuable Player. “I went to put pressure on Lucas and Marc and I got an open space and luckily I was able to score,” Astrada said. “Marc was trying to hook me and it was a little difficult but it went in. “This is a very fun team to play with,’ Astrada said. “I think we got along very well from the beginning. In our first game, once we started working as a team and did what we had to do for each other we played very well together.” When asked what the key to winning was, Swerdlin smiled and said “We put one more in than they did. You can’t take anything for granted but that was a great goal by Astrada. There was no secret, everybody was marked up and fighting, every ball was hard.”

Ava Maria, a 5-year-old mare played by Ganzi and owned by Spinacci, was Grand Champions Best Playing Pony. Palm Beach Equine was making its second championship appearance this season. In the Spring Challenge Cup, Palm Beach Equine lost a 9-8 overtime game to Aspen Valley’s Pablo Pulido, Juancito Bollini, Grant Ganzi and Alejandro Novillo Astrada.”This team played amazing, it was great fun,” Swerdlin said. “I want to thank Marc and Melissa Ganzi because without them I wouldn’t have the opportunity to play this kind of polo. It’s very generous of them to let us play with these kind of players that they have. It’s great, it’s exciting and it’s fun.”

In the second half, the teams played to a 2-2 tie in the fourth chukker with Palm Beach Equine still leading, 7-6. Palm Beach Equine had its biggest lead, 9-7, after the fifth chukker but Audi tied the game at 9-9 early in the final chukker with goals from Lalor and Erskine after a great pass from Zenni. After Astrada’s game-winner, Audi had two final scoring opportunities that fell short.

“It was fun,” Phillips said. “Juan and I have played together on-and-off for 15 years so it’s fun to play with him. This is the first time I got to play with Negro which was great, he is a very good player. He is very easy to play with.

The Santa Rita Abierto is named after Melissa Ganzi’s grandmother, who passed away on December 29, 2012, in Wellington. Grand Champions fall, winter and spring tournaments attract a large international field of players from all corners of the world including India, Mexico, New Zealand, Chile, Costa Rica, Argentina, Canada, Ecuador, Brazil, Switzerland, France, Germany, Uruguay, Azerbaijan, Australia, South Africa, Nigeria, Venezuela and England.

By Sharon Robb

www.gcpolo.com

Palm Beach Equine won its first tournament of the spring season at windswept Grand Champions Polo Club. In front of a packed house, Palm Beach Equine (Brandon Phillips, 4, Juan…

North America, Polo News

Colorado captures Triple Crown in World Polo League

15. April 2019

In a wet, wild finish Colorado held off Audi for a thrilling 9-8 victory to capture the World Polo League’s Triple Crown of Polo Sunday at rain-soaked Grand Champions Polo Club.

After two rain delays in the two hour, 20-minute season finale, Colorado joins Valiente, Grand Champions and SD Farms among the inaugural 26-goal league’s tournament champions. Colorado (Rob Jornayvaz, 2, Juan Martin Zubia, 7, Jero Del Carril, 7, Adolfo Cambiaso, 10) finished the eight-team tournament undefeated at 5-0 and won $90,000 in prize money. Audi (Marc Ganzi, 2, Nic Roldan, 8, Pablo MacDonough, 10, Kris Kampsen, 6) dropped to 4-1. Both teams were making their second tournament final appearance.

Cambiaso, a field general for his three young teammates including 19-year-old Zubia, was the game and tournament Most Valuable Player. His horse, Gaita, was Grand Champions Best Playing Pony. Ganzi was awarded the Catena Play of the Day. “This was a great way to end the season,” Cambiaso said. “It’s always nice to win. I think we deserved to win.”

The start of the game was delayed 40 minutes and again with 3:51 left in the game because of heavy rain. “It was a super tough game,” Jornayvaz said. “We weren’t sure at the beginning if we were even going to be able to play. It was a battle from the beginning. It’s always awesome to have Adolfo on your team because he is always good in those clutch moments.”

With Colorado leading 9-3 at the start of the fifth chukker, Audi caught on fire, found its system and controlled the momentum in the rain. Audi rallied to score five unanswered goals in the fifth and sixth chukkers but came up short. “We thought it was all over,” said World Polo League guest commentator Pelon Stirling after Audi’s remarkable comeback.

“You want drama, you got it,” added play-by-play announcer Gus Whitelaw. “To ask for better polo than this would be greedy. The crowd is sticking around for this one, rain and all.” Heavy rain forced another delay at 3:51. Juan Olivera of Grand Champions, Robertito Zedda of Valiente and WCT Commissioner Dale Smicklas walked the entire field to make sure it was still playable and safe. The field held up well thanks to the tireless work of the Grand Champions field crew throughout the season.

Rodiseo, played by MacDonough, was named American Polo Horse Association Best Playing Pony of the game. Pizza, also played by MacDonough, was the American Polo Horse Association Best Playing Pony of the tournament.

Colorado players names will now be inscribed on the trophy and added to an impressive list of teams that feature several top players including Sebastian Merlos, Mike Azzaro, Tommy Biddle, Adam Snow, Nic Roldan, Matias Magrini, Jeff Hall, Mariano Gonzalez, Michel Dorignac and Kris Kampsen.

Co-founded by Grand Champions owners Melissa and Marc Ganzi and Valiente Polo Farm owner Bob Jornayvaz, the successful World Polo League is the only 26-goal polo in the world outside of Argentina. The WPL is preserving the highest level of polo and its rich, hallowed tradition in the U.S.

By Sharon Robb

www.gcpolo.com

In a wet, wild finish Colorado held off Audi for a thrilling 9-8 victory to capture the World Polo League’s Triple Crown of Polo Sunday at rain-soaked Grand Champions Polo…

North America, Polo News

Greenwich Polo Club season kicks off on June 9th

9. April 2019

The 2019 summer polo season at Greenwich Polo Club is right around the corner. “We could not be more excited to welcome players, fans, and guests alike back for another incredible season of polo.” Greenwich Polo Club’s 39th season features nine Sunday matches open to the public, with four exciting tournaments and a one-of-a-kind polo experience that offers something special for absolutely everyone.

This season’s Opening Day will take place on Sunday, June 9th, with the first match of the Shreve, Crump & Low Cup (June 9 & 16). Huntsman team (Dillon Bacon, Segundo Merlos, Toro Ruiz and Tomas Garcia del Rio) won the title in its inaugural year. The tournament season continues with Monty Waterbury (June 23 & 30) and the new American Cup (July 14 & July 23), and crowning the season will be the East Coast Open® (August 25, September 1 & September 8).

Mark your calendars for a family friendly and action packed way to spend your Sundays this summer. Greenwich Polo Club promises an unforgettable experience for each guest. Check out the news items below for more of what to expect this season.

2019 SUNDAY PUBLIC MATCHES
SHREVE, CRUMP & LOW CUP
June 9th and 16th
MONTY WATERBURY
June 23d and 30th
AMERICAN CUP
July 14th and 21st
EAST COAST OPEN®
August 25th, September 1st and 8th

www.greenwichpoloclub.com