global

After endless weeks of winter weather that couldn’t be wetter and duller, the time comes when one deeply yearns for a change of scenery. Therefore, the postcard app Postando presents five accommodations whose indescribable views allow every viewer to escape from the everyday life. If you want to share your loved ones’ holiday happiness, the app makes it easy to send photos as real postcards via your smartphone. With the code VIEW, Postando is gifting every first-time user with a free postcard until the end of August.

Grace Hotel Santorin, Greek
The Grace Hotel Santorin, which belongs to the Auberge Resorts Collection, has a special charm: it was carved out of the island’s rock and fascinates with its minimalist white-blue buildings lined up along the cliff. Its architecture is known as the archetypal building style of the Greek island worlds. The lagoon-like infinity pool offers an incomparable panoramic view of the Cycladic caldera, which is partially submerged in the sea. At 363 meters above sea level, the Champagne Lounge is just the right place to watch the blue Aegean turn into a golden sea at a picturesque sunset. Moments like these create memories you want to capture and share with your loved ones. With the app Postando, vacationers can send this breathtaking scenery quickly and easily in the form of a real postcard. Up to six smartphone snapshots can be easily uploaded to the postcard app to personalize the back of the postcard and share the beautiful scenery with friends and family.

Ahwahnee Hotel, USA
In the heart of Yosemite National Park in the Californian Sierra Nevada, the luxurious Ahwahnee Hotel surprises with a strong contrast to the monotonous everyday life. The central park location makes the hotel a popular accommodation for active vacationers and adventurers. Named after the local Indian settlement, “Ahwahnee”, it blends harmoniously into the natural surroundings with a granite façade and rustic wooden elements. The hotel offers phenomenal views of the iconic sights of the National Park: The “Half Dome”, an impressive rock formation and the “Yosemite Falls”, which are among the highest waterfalls in the world.

Kayumanis Ubud Private Villas & Spa, Indonesia
Not far from Bali’s cultural capital Ubud, the intimate oasis of peace Kayumanis Ubud Private Villas & Spa is located in the heart of a mystical highland region. Surrounded by blossoming flowers and cinnamon groves, guests are invited to indulge in a variety of spa treatments and learn about the fine Balinese cuisine in a cooking class. One of the resort’s highlights is the infinity pool, which visually blends in with the deep green expanse of the surrounding tropical rainforest. From there you can watch the gently flowing Ayung River, which radiates an incredibly calm and comfortable atmosphere and rounds off the view of the magnificent jungle scenery.

Soul Collection Penthouse, South Africa
One of the most spectacular accommodations in Cape Town is located on the 17th floor of the Horizon Bay building on Table Bay Beach: The Penthouse of the Soul Collection. From this elevated position, you can admire the city’s imposing landmark – Table Mountain – whose striking plateau-shaped silhouette stands out against the orange-tinted morning and evening sky. The glass fronts of the penthouse allow an undisturbed view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding miles of sandy beaches. This region is a hotspot for adventurous surfers who dare to jump on the waves towering meters high – such a scenery is often captured by the viewers on the beach in a video. With the smart app from Postando, you can then share the experience you have just captured with friends and family: Simply use the Postando app to select the desired postcard motif and greeting text as well as the previously recorded video from the media library or record a video directly via the app. The video message is then printed on the postcard with an individually created QR code and can be easily scanned and viewed via the recipient’s app.

PARKROYAL COLLECTION on Pickering, Singapore
For big city lovers, the luxurious hotel, PARKROYAL COLLECTION on Pickering, in the island state of Singapore is just the right place to relax. With its futuristic architecture, which is characterized by glass and green exterior facades, this hotel enhances the centre of Singapore. The term “urban jungle” takes on a whole new meaning with the view from this hotel: A total of 300 meters of planted jungle landscape are spread over six balconies, behind which the skyline of Singapore unfolds. The colourful cabanas at the edge of the infinity pool create a comfortable lounge atmosphere and invite you to relax and enjoy local delicacies. The roof terrace in the COLLECTION Club Lounge offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city skyline.

These unique views are often captured in pictures to share with friends and family. With Postando, users send these memories as postcards in a very personal way: Simply design a personalized postcard using your own pictures in the app, compose a personal message and select the happy recipient. The self-designed postcard lands directly in the mailbox of the loved one and is a very special surprise. Thanks to the video function, Postando users can now even integrate moving images of their experiences and share them with friends and family more intensively. With the code VIEW, the first postcard is free for new users via the app until the end of August. Further information can be found at www.postando.de.

About Postando
The company specializes in the simple dispatch of individual postcards and greeting cards using a smartphone. In just four simple steps, each user – young or old – can design their own postcard and send their loved one directly to the mailbox:

Simply choose format and use your own photos or one of many templates, compose a personal message and select the lucky recipient. Lastly, check front and back before final shipping and pay. Whether you are on holiday, at a celebration or birthday party, or simply want to make yourself happy, Postando is the perfect solution for all occasions. Further Information can be found at https://en.postando.de.

 

© Thomas Wirth

by Dr. Holger Schmieding

An extreme global health emergency meets an unprecedented policy response

Europe as the new epicentre: In China, the number of active cases continues to fall, down from a peak of 58k on 18 February to 15k on 12 March. In Europe, however, the total number of con­ firmed infections has doubled within three days to 46k as of the morning of 15 March. From a much lower level, the US has followed with an increase by 2k to 3k during this period according to the daily WHO situation reports and the 15 March data from Johns Hopkins University.

Lockdown economics: Ever more countries are imposing and tightening lockdowns, including Italy (12 March), Spain (14 March) and Austria (15 March). France, Germany and the us are among those countries doing so in a still less severe form. Expect more of the same in more countries.

While these lockdowns last, they may well curtail economic activity by more than the Great Fi­nancial Crisis of late 2008 and early 2009. When the lockdowns are eased, activity may rebound significantly from such unusually depressed levels, though, even if pre-Corona levels will not be reached again for a quite a while. GDP data for the full year 2020 or possibly even for Q2 could still be less bad than the dismal dynamics of upcoming data for March and April will likely suggest. In any case, the risks to economic activity are skewed heavily to the downside.

Frontloading the response: Lockdowns take a heavy toll on everyday life and current economic activity. However,  they probably help to slow down the spread of the virus and contain the hu­ man costs of the pandemic somewhat. In doing so, they may also reduce the aggregate economic damage.

The impact differs widely between sectors. Some services are being hit much more than manu­facturing and construction. The impact in the advanced world is going far beyond the supply­ chain damage that was in focus when the pandemic was mostly confined to China.

Whatever it takes: Monetary, fiscal and regulatory policy responses are approaching “whatever it takes, whatever works” mode on both sides of the Atlantic. For our assessment of measures taken on both sides of the Atlantic by Friday, see the links at the bottom of this note.

Circuit breakers? Amid huge  uncertainty about the medical outlook and the economic impact  of containment measures, even unprecedented monetary/fiscaljregulatory responses are not obvi­ous circuit breakers against the market panic. The Covid-19 pandemic is a severe shock to supply and demand in the real economy, not primarily a financial crisis that could be fixed by a financial boost. Markets may remain very unsettled until the outlook for the pandemic and the  contain­ment measures has become clearer.

Financial risks: The market reaction to the pandemic raises the risk that financial stresses may emerge. However, we expect an aggressive policy response to prevent such stresses from adding materially to the near-term recession. On both sides of the Atlantic, policy makers are on high alert.They have shown that they are ready to act forcefully.

After the selloff: Extreme uncertainty and self-reinforcing market dynamics can explain the cur­ rent market crash. However, we do not expect that, once the dust has settled, the productive ca­pacity of the private economy in the Western world as measured by equity prices should be worth some 20-30% less than pre-Corona. That should hold even with a risk of some capital dilution. Near-term, however, this long-term fundamental view will probably not shape market dynamics yet, to put it mildly.

Debt migration:Due to “whatever it takes” policy responses, a significant part of the costs of the pandemic will likely turn into public debt over time, partly ending up on central bank balance sheets. Interest rates that will likely be much lower for much longer will make this bearable in most cases. Expect a degree of “Japanification” in this particular sense.

The political fallout is impossible to gauge.After an event of this scale, it could be significant. For now, the crisis seems to be stabilising coalition governments in Italy and Germany. In the US, President Donald Trump remains the favourite to win the election on 3 November although his probability of being re-elected has fallen over the last seven days by 4.6 points to 47.1% versus

44.0% for Joe Biden according to www.electingbettingodds.com.

 

 

Argentinian polo legend to help develop world-class equestrian facilities at AMAALA

Global polo star and Ralph Lauren model, Ignacio Figueras, has been named a brand ambassador for AMAALA, the ultra-exclusive tourism destination under development on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast.

More commonly known as ‘Nacho’, Figueras is ranked one of the top 100 polo players in the world.  A regular on international TV programmes, the star has a huge global following and was once voted the second most handsome man in the world by the readers of Vanity Fair magazine. In his latest role, Nacho will help shape the world-class polo facilities at AMAALA and represent the brand at international polo matches.

“I have always said my mission in life is to bring polo to the world a little more, so the chance to help shape what will be the world’s best polo facilities is an incredibly exciting opportunity and one that I simply could not turn down,” commented Figueras. “I will consult on the overall strategy including design, construction, operations, marketing and event planning of polo facilities at AMAALA.”

As an AMAALA Ambassador focused on the sport of polo, Nacho will be tasked with establishing prestigious polo events at AMAALA, as well as around the world through team sponsorships and other activations. He will help establish the AMAALA Polo Training Academy, encouraging youth participation in the sport and provide select guests with the chance to train with him as their personal polo coach.

Commenting on the agreement, AMAALA Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Naples said, “Our partnership with Nacho demonstrates how seriously we view polo as a component of the AMAALA sport and lifestyle experience. Nacho regularly ranks among the world’s top players with a profile that transcends the sport itself earning him the moniker as the ‘David Beckham of polo’. He is the ideal ambassador for the world-class facilities that will help grow the sport of polo in Saudi Arabia.”

Design of all polo facilities will be based on international benchmarks, and will include a suitable number, size and location of polo assets and other equestrian facilities to make it a world-class venue. Amenities will include an equestrian-themed hotel and a country club, paddock villas and estates, horse stables, horse-boarding facilities and horse spa/recovery treatment areas. The facilities will also feature visitor areas, horse trails and horseback riding for recreational purposes. There will also be pony camps for children.

“This is very exciting for the sport of polo in the Kingdom,” commented Chairman of the Saudi Polo Federation Amr Zedan. “The facilities being planned at AMAALA are truly world-class and will inspire a new generation of young Saudis to take up the sport and to learn from global stars like Nacho.”

Following the official partnership signing, Nacho led an AMAALA polo team to victory at the historical AlUla Desert Polo Championship. The first match organised in association with the Saudi Polo Federation, as well as the Royal Commission for AlUla, was staged as part of the Winter at Tantora festival. Featuring four teams of three players including Team AMAALA, Team AlUla, Team Al Nahla Bentley and Team Richard Mille, the championship saw Team AMAALA’s historic victory, culminating in an award ceremony presented by His Royal Highness Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal the chairman of the General Authority for Sports.

AMAALA is anchored around the three pillars of wellness and sports, arts and culture, and sun, sea and lifestyle. It is also dedicated to sustainable building and operational practices, with environment preservation and enhancement paramount to the success of the ambitious project.

Photos: AlUla Saudi Polo Federation


AMAALA Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Naples pictured (l-r) with Polo Superstar Ignacio ‘Nacho’ Figueras.

 


AMAALA Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Naples signs Polo Legend Ignacio ‘Nacho’ Figueras as first AMAALA Brand Ambassador.

© Thomas Wirth
by Stefanie Stüting

Top real estates, the most beautiful premises, the most luxurious properties and most interesting investment objectives worldwide – POLO+10 knows the property market and is your specialist for polo properties worldwide. You are searching for a buyer of your estate? Or you would like to profit from the worldwide POLO+10 community as a real estate agent? Send us your properties and POLO+10 Real Estate will support you in selling them. 

We watch with great interest what currently is happening in Portugal: The sunny country in the very west of Europe is right now evolving into the new polo hot spot in Europe. POLO+10 gives an overview of the fascinating developments and the most beautiful properties.

Portugal/Comporta – a new polo community arises

Searching for the perfect polo estate in Comporta?
Portugal is probably the most diverse and beautiful country in Europe and also one of the oldest countries in Europe. POLO+10 knows Portugal and especially the Comporta region inside out and offers you the best estates.

About an hour ́s drive due south from colourful, vibrant Lisbon, a region that so far has escaped the hectic crowds of sun-thirsty beach goers and loud party people is just waking up. Comporta is more commonly associated with “Herdade da Comporta”, the 43-kilometer-long strip of land on the Alentejo coast with its seemingly endless sandy beaches languishing under an azure blue sky and traditional white-washed cottages dotted around the unspoilt countryside. With around 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Comporta has retained its vast, quiet, untouched beauty, unlike the inter- national jet set destinations on the Côte d ́Azur, Costa del Sol and Ibiza.

The potential of this Atlantic west coast region was first discovered by José Manuel Espírito Santo, descendant of a wealthy Portuguese dynasty, who first laid eyes on it from his yacht. He went ashore and shortly afterwards acquired more land in the region. When the Banco Espírito Santo, one of Portugal ́s largest banks, including its owner José Manuel, went bankrupt a few years ago some of the land was acquired by the state. Since then the region together with the seven villages of Pego, Carvalhal, Brejos, Torre, Possanco, Carrasqueira and Comporta has been gently introduced to the type of premium tourism that favours nature conservation, exclusive hotels and holiday homes. The Comporta region is a place of longing as in “saudade” from the Portuguese which implies the longing for a reunion. Endless beaches, sweeping horizons and the sea. Quietly secluded. This place of socalled longing – the new Hamptons of Portugal – has already attracted a number of prominent millionaires who are fascinated by this unique and still almost “secret” beauty spot.

In this touching and incomparable nature, both wide, flat ground as well as the perfect ground conditions offer 100% best conditions for a unique polo destination. Only a stone’s throw from the extensive beaches of Comporta, a paradise for polo enthusiasts will be created, who will find a sunny polo home and the best conditions for their sport here all year round.

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This year a new polo destination is being created in Comporta, which will be relevant as a centre for the international sport of polo throughout Europe, if not the whole world. In addition to the new Polo Club, the location and landscape, geographical features and climate are perfect for the establishment of further private polo estancias, polo fields and stables. The polo horses spend the winter here perfectly and it is possible to play all year round.

Polo facts Portugal/Comporta

• Portugal is the most hospitable country in the world
• The Polo Club is located in the Comporta region, one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal
• Portugal has a long and experienced horse tradition
• The new “Hamptons” of Europe
• Best climate for man and horse all year round
• Short distance to international transport lines
• Perfect infrastructure
• Portugal is the third most peaceful country in the world
• Portugal has the most stable government in the world
• Portugal has the lowest inflation rate 2019 in Europe
• Portugal is on the radar of investors from all over the world • Tax advantages for investors and new residents
• Forbes: Alentejo is one of the most diversified and Portugal’s most irresistible landscapes
• 15 titles won at the World Tourism Award 2019
• Forbes calls Portugal “the best European country to live in”

For more information about polo in Comporta, please click here:
www.poloplus10.com/the-new-polo-mecca-in-portugal-78424/

www.poloplus10.com/portugal-calling-78016/

Are you interested in finding a polo finca in Portugal/Comporta? POLO+10 will assist you.
thomas@poloplus10.com

Location Comporta: Flight time map

POLO+10 Real Estate: A new home for our global polo family

POLO+10 Real Estate has properties all over the world in its portfolio.
→ All offers by POLO+10 Real Estate at a glance

© Thomas Wirth

It was all excitement in the heart of Reith bei Kitzbühel as the teams and thousands strong throng of spectators prepared for the final day of world class play in the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup.

Following a star-studded Players’ Night Gala on Saturday night, the sun once again shone true on the pristine polo field as host team Bendura Bank came up against the all-German Maserati team in the first match of the day. From the first ‘get-go’, Bendura Bank came firing out of the starting blocks, with a superb 15 yard penalty from Captain Melissa Ganzi. As the only female player in the tournament, Ganzi has proven herself to be more than a worthy adversary for her male opponents, scoring every one of the 15 yard penalties asked of her on Saturday and Sunday. Maserati couldn’t find their footing in the first chukka, succumbing to a 4-1½ lead to their rivals by the bell. By half-time, Argentine Alejandro Novillo Astrada secured a further three goals, to only two in response from Thomas Winter and Caspar Crasemann, ensuring Bendura Bank led 7-3½ by the break. Despite lengthy team talks during the interlude, Maserati were just no match for Bendura Bank’s 8 goal powerhouse. Coming into the fourth and final chukka, Bendura Bank had a seemingly insurmountable 10-3½ lead, but with Maserati praying to the polo gods for a miracle, Winter and Crasemann found the posts twice in the final minutes of the fourth chukka. But, as the match came to a close, event organiser and snow polo favourite Tito Gaudenzi drew on the dotted line for Bendura Bank with their final goal, to secure fifth place with a lucky 13-6½ final score.   

The second match for The Kitzbühel Country Club Cup Subsidiary Final saw Corum take on Bernd Gruber. Patron Eckhardt Juls was replaced due to injury by the 19-year-old Enno Grans (0). The yellow shirts of Corum hit the first chukka hard with Patrick Maleitzke scoring a flamboyant hat trick of goals in as many minutes. The Corum path to victory looked certain under his stewardship – but, Grant Ganzi and his Bernd Gruber clan, of Brazilian Eduardo Greghi and 7 goal machine, Frenchman Pierre-Henri Ngoumou, had other ideas. Strong defence and solid teamwork saw them equalise in the second chukka. From then on it was goal for goal as each team evenly matched the fight. But eventually reverting to the form of the first chukka Corum’s dominance prevailed with the final score resting at 6 goals to 7 at the end of the last chukka.

The third and final match of the day was the reason we were all here – the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Final. It was set to be an exciting extravaganza of international polo prowess, as six players from four countries took to the arena to a collective roar from the crowd. Sebastian Schneberger was in search of his third title, to equal the record breaking three Snow Polo World Cup wins currently held by Brit Jonny Good, and coincidentally 20th January was also the day of St. Sebastian, so perhaps divine intervention would play a key role. Engel & Völkers, four-time finalists and only one-time winners, were looking to be the crowd’s favourite, but as the first ball was thrown-in, Aki Van Andel came flying out of the mêlée with the ball seemingly glued to his stick. His 7 goal team mate Valentin Novillo Astrada wasn’t far behind him, in his usual form. Despite their initial fervour, Engel & Völkers were the first on the scoreboard with a fantastic field goal from Captain Kutlay Yaprak. Following a brief horse change, Novillo Astrada found his rhythm, scoring the first of his many goals. The game was full of tension and high spirits, as players went into ride-offs with extreme energy. By half-time, 2019’s newest team, Cîroc, were 4-2 ahead, to the dismay of the assembled ‘Red Devils’ fans. Adrian Laplacette Jr, usually the one to watch for the boys in red, was consistently shut out of plays by Van Andel, who was later named Most Valuable Player, using his pony’s strength to ensure Novillo Astrada always had a clean run on the ball. By the end of the third chukka, Cîroc continued to hold the lead 6-3, with Engel & Völkers hoping for a polo miracle to bless them in the final six minutes. As if having found renewed energy, Novillo Astrada scored three goals in as many minutes to open the chukka to only one in response from Laplacette Jr. With 9-4 on the scoreboard, Agustin Kronhaus tried desperately to bring his team back into the game, but the clock was not in his favour. As the bell tolled at the end of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup 2019, Cîroc rode off the field to elated cries of congratulations from the crowd and the coveted trophy in their hands.

Cîroc Captain Sebastian Schnerberger said after the Final, “This was a great event and I’m so happy we’ve walked away with the title. It was a tough match, but we rallied together and did what we came here to do.”

Event Organiser, Tito Gaudenzi continued, “What an exciting weekend this has been. Our team may have not made it to the Final, but this year’s tournament has been the best yet, with record crowds and fantastic players. I can’t wait for next year’s edition and we hope to welcome everyone back for the 18th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup. But for now, off to St. Moritz!”

 

The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Ranking Teams:

1. Cîroc Vodka (12):

Sebastian Schneberger (2/GER),

Aki van Andel (3/NED)

Valentin Novillo Astrada (7/ARG)

 

2. Engel & Völkers (12):

Kutlay Yaprak (1/TUR)

Agustin Kronhaus (4/ARG)

Adrian Laplacette Jr. (7/ARG)

 

3. Corum (10):

Eno Grans (0/GER)

Patrick Maleitzke (4/GER)

Juan Ruiz-Guiñazú (6/ARG)

 

4. Bernd Gruber (10):

Eduardo Greghi (0/BRA)

Grant Ganzi (3/USA)

Pierre Henri Ngoumou (7/FR)

 

5. Bendura Bank (12):

Melissa Ganzi (1/USA)

Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8/USA – substituted by Isidro Strada 7)

Tito Gaudenzi (3/CH)

 

6. Maserati (10):

Marc Aberle (1/GER)

Caspar Crasemann (4/GER)

Thomas Winter (5/GER)

 

Commentator: Jan-Erik Franck

Umpire: Mark Holmes

 

The Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2019 programme began on Thursday 17th January, with the team presentations at Hotel zur Tenne in the heart of Kitzbühel village. Following this time-honoured start, matches got underway on Friday 18th January and continue until the Final on Sunday 20th January. For more information about the event, please click here – www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Photograph courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel. The photo can be used free of charge for editorial purposes. In this context, you are required to use a photo credit.

Media will find a choice of accredited images at www.kitzbuehelpolo.com/media

http://bit.ly/PressKitzPolo19

If you require high resolution images, please contact kitz@polotimes.co.uk

For journalist accreditation, please contact the Accreditation Office:

Christina Schockemöhle, schockemoehle@sasse-schockemoehle.com Phone + 49 – 171 – 208 5522

For more information and support at the tournament please contact:

English speaking Journalists: Jen Liggins, Call + 44 – 7817 – 254 – 879

German speaking Journalists: Stefanie Stüting, Call + 49 – 171 – 788 2264

The polo gods were looking down fondly on Kitzbühel today with the sun shining brightly in the heart of Tyrolean Alps, ready for the second day of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup.

The first match of the day was a heated, high octane affair. Cîroc Vodka, having won their initial match 8-4½ against Bernd Gruber, were looking for a second win to secure their spot in the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Final, with 2017 winners Maserati hoping to rectify their first match loss. With a 1½ goal handicap advantage at the first throw-in, it looked like the all-German Maserati team might hold their early lead, but Cîroc’s Valentin Novillo Astrada was having none of it. In the first chukka, Novillo Astrada ensured Cîroc’s presence on the scoreboard, to only one in response from Thomas Winter. By half-time, a goal from Novillo Astrada and Aki Van Andel put the boys in blue ahead 4-3½ going into the break. From here, the game became Cîroc’s. With tensions looking calmer than they had in the first half, Novillo Astrada went about ensuring his team secured their spot in the Final. He and Van Andel racked up another nine goals in the following two chukkas, despite impressive defensive play from Maserati’s Caspar Crasemann and Winter. At the final bell, Cîroc Vodka rode off the field with a 13-6½ win and a spot in tomorrow’s Final.   

The second match of day two was set to be the decider, with 2017 champions Corum, following an injury to number one Eckhardt Juls in the first day of play, welcoming back Corum veteran 3 goal Lukas Sdrenka to once again sport the famous yellow shirt. With this change to the line-up, the team now took to the field with a 12 goal handicap, in theory putting themselves leaps and bounds ahead of the 10 goal Bernd Gruber. However, from the off, Frenchman Pierre-Henri Ngoumou was a force to be reckoned with. As if facing the competition on a personal battle, Ngoumou controlled the play from the back, changing pace, rhythm and direction on a sixpence. It took all the power and experience of Corum regular Patrick Maleitzke to prise the ball from Ngoumou but take it he did. By half-time, Corum had put themselves ahead 5-3½, but as the second half commenced, Grant Ganzi secured a much needed 15 yard penalty, bringing Bernd Gruber back into the game. A huge, cross-field hit from Ngoumou put Bernd Gruber into the driver’s seat for the first time in the game, as the crowd erupted from the stands, but Maleitzke knew what he had to do. Two quick fire goals ended the chukka, with Corum back in the lead 7-5½. The final chukka was fraught and fiery as Maleitzke worked his magic again at the off, swiftly followed by one in response from Ganzi. With another powerful run and storming goal from Maleitzke, it looked like it was all over for Bernd Gruber. But, as the clock ticked down, Bernd Gruber Captain, Brazilian Eduardo Greghi placed himself in exactly the right place at the right time, securing the final goal of the match. Corum may have won the second match 9-7½, but with the teams so unbelievably close this year, who ended up in the Final would go down to the last match on goal difference.

With the eagerly awaited bustling crowd nestled in the VIP Enclosure, ready to see their favourite players in action, the final match got under way on day two of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup. This exciting match was set to be a rematch of the 2018 Final, with Bendura Bank up against their venerable rivals Engel & Völkers. With a loss for Bendura Bank and a win yesterday for Engel & Völkers, the host team needed to bring their A-game to halt the ‘Red Devils’ in their tracks to the Final. With the teams evenly matched, 12 goals apiece, Argentine Adrian Laplacette Jr was the first to find the posts, securing a fast goal, but 8 goaler Alejandro Novillo Astrada, the highest handicapped player in the tournament, wasn’t far behind him in response. Laplacette Jr found his groove early in the match with another two goals before the bell signalled the end of the first chukka. Bendura Bank Captain Melissa Ganzi began the second chukka with the first of her four successful 15 yard penalties during the match, ensuring Bendura Bank weren’t far behind their rivals. But, with goals from Agustin Kronhaus, an own goal off a horse in Engel & Völkers favour and another goal from Laplacette Jr, by half-time, the ‘Red Devils’ were four goals ahead 6-2. Following the half-time break, Ganzi continued her 15 yard penalty streak with two golden goals, but in a rare incident, Novillo Astrada clashed heads with his own horse, removing him from the rest of the match with fortunately nothing more than concussion. Luckily, 7 goal Isidro Strada was waiting in the wings to help his fallen comrade, quickly sporting his team shirt and setting out for the rest of the match for Bendura Bank. Engel & Völkers by now had the momentum. Captain Kutlay Yaprak had an extraordinary burst of energy, scoring a whopping three field goals in as many minutes to only two from his Bendura Bank adversaries. So, as the sun set behind the snow-laden hills, Engel & Völkers secured their second consecutive Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Final position, which will this year, see them face the brand new Cîroc Vodka team on the final day of play.

Lead sponsor and CEO of Bendura Bank, Dr Andreas Insam said following the day’s play, “Today has been fantastic. We have been blessed with excellent weather, thrilling polo and spectacular company. We can’t wait for tomorrow’s Finals day and to see who will be crowned 2019 champions.”

The entrance to the public area is free with delicious local delights and refreshments available from food trucks to keep even the keenest spectators fed and watered throughout the week’s activities.

Some VIP tickets for this polo and party spectacular, including catering, are available from www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Programme of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel:

Sunday 20th January

11.30am: Bendura Bank vs Maserati (Match for 5th and 6th place)

12.45pm: Bernd Gruber vs Corum (Kitzbühel Country Club Cup Finals for 3rd and 4th place)

2pm: Cîroc vs Engel & Völkers (Final of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel)

3.30pm: Prize-giving ceremony, presentation of Most Valuable Player and Best Playing Pony Awards and photo shoot

 

The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Teams are as follows:

Bendura Bank (12):

Melissa Ganzi (1/USA)

Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8/USA – substituted by Isidro Strada 7)

Tito Gaudenzi (3/CH)

 

Engel & Völkers (12):

Kutlay Yaprak (1/TUR)

Agustin Kronhaus (4/ARG)

Adrian Laplacette Jr. (7/ARG)

Cîroc Vodka (12):

Sebastian Schneberger (2/GER),

Aki van Andel (3/NED)

Valentin Novillo Astrada (7/ARG)

 

Bernd Gruber (10):

Eduardo Greghi (0/BRA)

Grant Ganzi (3/USA)

Pierre Henri Ngoumou (7/FR)

 

Corum (12):

Lukas Sdrenka (3/GER)

Patrick Maleitzke (4/GER)

Juan Ruiz-Guiñazú (5/ARG)

 

Maserati (10):

Marc Aberle (1/GER)

Caspar Crasemann (4/GER)

Thomas Winter (5/GER)

 

Commentator: Jan-Erik Franck

Umpire: Mark Holmes

 

The Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2019 programme began on Thursday 17th January, with the team presentations at Hotel zur Tenne in the heart of Kitzbühel village. Following this time-honoured start, matches got underway on Friday 18th January and continue until the Final on Sunday 20th January. For more information about the event, please click here – www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Photograph courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel. The photo can be used free of charge for editorial purposes. In this context, you are required to use a photo credit.

Media will find a choice of accredited images at www.kitzbuehelpolo.com/media

http://bit.ly/PressKitzPolo19

If you require high resolution images, please contact kitz@polotimes.co.uk

For journalist accreditation, please contact the Accreditation Office:

Christina Schockemöhle, schockemoehle@sasse-schockemoehle.com Phone + 49 – 171 – 208 5522

For more information and support at the tournament please contact:

English speaking Journalists: Jen Liggins, Call + 44 – 7817 – 254 – 879

German speaking Journalists: Stefanie Stüting, Call + 49 – 171 – 788 2264

If sun, snow and fast-paced polo is your cup of tea, then the first day of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel had everything you’ll ever want.

The first of the match of the day saw Melissa Ganzi’s Bendura Bank team catapult into the action keen to defend their title after last year’s solid performance. With the same line-up of 9 goal powerhouse Alejandro Novillo Astrada and snow polo maestro Tito Gaudenzi, they came out of the traps strongly with the only lady player in the tournament, Ganzi notching up two goals in quick succession. The yellow shirted Corum team received a 1½ goal start because of their lower handicap aggregate. But this shortfall certainly was not reflected in their performance. Maleitzke was seemingly unstoppable. Powering through goal after goal and by half-time they had pulled ahead into a 7½-4 lead. Ganzi and her team rallied valiantly, but it was never enough and Corum clinched the first victory of the tournament with a final score of 11½-9. In the final seconds of the last chukka, Corum’s Eckhardt Juls took an unfortunate fall from his horse. With a collar bone fracture, Juls will not be coming back to the field this week, but a substitute will take his place for the rest of the tournament.

2018 runners-up, Engel & Völkers, were next up against the seasoned Maserati team, sporting the same line-up as last year. With a point to prove this time around, the ‘Red Devils’ began their 2019 competition with fervour. Despite Maserati starting the match with a 1½ handicap advantage, and a goal in the first minute of the first chukka, from that point on, Engel & Völkers, using the expert pairing of Agustin Kronhaus and Adrian Laplacette Jr at back, casually maintained possession, securing a 5-2½ lead by half-time. Maserati’s Caspar Crasemann and Thomas Winter were not willing to go down easy, consistently battling for possession, but with cracks starting to show and mistakes being made, Laplacette Jr took advantage, changing the plays’ pace to match his gains. With just three minutes to go in the final chukka, and 7-4½ on the scoreboard, still in Engel & Völkers favour, Crasemann missed an all-important penalty, leaving the ball open for the ‘Red Devils’ to capitalise on. First Laplacette Jr missed the goal, then Kronhaus followed with a mistimed shot that hit the post, but as if by magic, Team Captain Kutlay Yaprak ensured the ball sailed through the goal to secure Engel & Völkers’ first match 8-4½. 

To round off the thrilling first day of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup, Kitzbühel stalwarts Bernd Gruber came up against the new 2019 side, Cîroc. What’s more, it was also the debut of three players: American Grant Ganzi, who having stepped off a plane this morning, was ready and raring for his Austrian snow polo premier alongside Dutchman Aki van Andel and Frenchman Pierre-Henri Ngoumou. The Dutchman began the match’s scoring, securing the first pivotal goal for Cîroc. 7 goal Valentin Novillo Astrada wasn’t far behind him with the second, and from there, Cîroc led the scoreboard with fervour. If the match had been scored on gymnastic ability with the ball, rather than goal scoring, Ngoumou would have secured the match early on, but Novillo Astrada stuck to him like glue, ensuring his epic dribbling skills never culminated in success. At half-time Cîroc led 6-2½, and despite an impressive goal from Ngoumou to end the third chukka, it would have taken a miracle to break Cîroc’s lead. As the clock ticked down at the end of the match, Ganzi secured possession on the far side of the field, firing the ball with a remarkable neck shot from the half way lines, straight through the posts. Cîroc secured the win 8-4½, but with Ganzi and Ngoumou’s snow polo eyes now well and truly in, perhaps tomorrow’s match with turn the Snow Polo World Cup tables.

Event Organiser Tito Gaudenzi said following the days play, “The ground played exceedingly well today, and we can’t wait to get back out there tomorrow to defend our title. With so many strong teams and players this year, goal difference is really important. There’s more excitement to come!”

The entrance to the public area is free with delicious local delights and refreshments available from food trucks to keep even the keenest spectators fed and watered throughout the week’s activities.

Some VIP tickets for this polo and party spectacular, including catering, are available from www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Programme of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel:

Saturday 19th January

11.30am: Cîroc Vodka vs Maserati

12.45pm: Corum vs Bernd Gruber

2pm: Bendura Bank vs Engel & Völkers

8pm: Polo Players Night in the VIP Tent (by invitation only/information via Lifestyle Events: (info@kitzbuehelpolo.com)

 

Sunday 20th January

11.30am: Match for 5th and 6th place

12.45pm: Kitzbühel Country Club Cup Finals for 3rd and 4th place

2pm: Final of The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel

3.30pm: Prize-giving ceremony, presentation of Most Valuable Player and Best Playing Pony Awards and photo shoot

 

The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Teams are as follows:

Bendura Bank (12):

Melissa Ganzi (1/USA)

Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8/USA)

Tito Gaudenzi (3/CH)

 

Engel & Völkers (12):

Kutlay Yaprak (1/TUR)

Agustin Kronhaus (4/ARG)

Adrian Laplacette Jr. (7/ARG)

 

Cîroc Vodka (12):

Sebastian Schneberger (2/GER),

Aki van Andel (3/NED)

Valentin Novillo Astrada (7/ARG)

 

Bernd Gruber (10):

Eduardo Greghi (0/BRA)

Grant Ganzi (3/USA)

Pierre Henri Ngoumou (7/FR)

 

Corum (10):

Eckhardt Juls (0/GER)

Patrick Maleitzke (4/GER)

Juan Ruiz-Guiñazú (6/ARG)

 

Maserati (10):

Marc Aberle (1/GER)

Caspar Crasemann (4/GER)

Thomas Winter (5/GER)

 

Commentator: Jan-Erik Franck

Umpire: Mark Holmes

 

The Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2019 programme began on Thursday 17th January, with the team presentations at Hotel zur Tenne in the heart of Kitzbühel village. Following this time-honoured start, matches got underway on Friday 18th January and continue until the Final on Sunday 20th January. For more information about the event, please click here – www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Photograph courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel. The photo can be used free of charge for editorial purposes. In this context, you are required to use a photo credit.

Media will find a choice of accredited images at www.kitzbuehelpolo.com/media

http://bit.ly/PressKitzPolo19

If you require high resolution images, please contact kitz@polotimes.co.uk

For journalist accreditation, please contact the Accreditation Office:

Christina Schockemöhle, schockemoehle@sasse-schockemoehle.com Tel + 49 – 171 – 208 5522

For more information and support at the tournament please contact:

English speaking Journalists: Jen Liggins, Call + 44 – 7817 – 254 – 879

German speaking Journalists: Stefanie Stüting, Call + 49 – 171 – 788 2264

The heart of Kitzbühel is alive with excitement as global polo stars arrive for The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup ahead of three days of fast horses, exciting sport and glamorous evening events.

As the sun set on a cool Thursday evening, the village of Kitzbühel opened its doors for The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup official kick off. Following a team briefing from event organiser and snow polo veteran, Tito Gaudenzi, the world’s press gathered in front of the Hotel zur Tenne for the official presentation of the 2019 teams.

Hailing from across the globe, this year’s event welcomes 18 players from eight countries, ready and raring to test their mettle on the pristine Kitzbühel snow. This year, the Tyrolean village has seen a record-breaking amount of fresh snow, and with the sun having made its first appearance for what seems like an age on Thursday, and sunny days forecast to come, there could not be better conditions for this year’s tournament.

Gathered in front of the Hotel zur Tenne for the official presentation, spectators and guests were greeted with an assembled roar of the six Maseratis as the players arrived at the hotel and took their positions on the presentation stand. This year’s draw took place prior to the official presentation at the Kitzbühel Country Club on Sunday 13th January, with 2018 champions Bendura Bank set to be first on the polo field on Friday 18th January against age-old rivals, and 2017 champions, Corum at 11.30am to begin the event in style.

What’s more, over 800 guests will be lucky enough to enjoy the VIP tent over the course of the three days, which will be the grandest ever seen in Kitzbühel and will host the glamorous and renowned invitation only Gala Night on Saturday evening.

For the 17th year, the competition is proud and excited to welcome back its loyal collection of sponsors supporting this long-standing event. Bendura Bank lead the sponsor’s board, joining the other distinguished team sponsors Bernd Gruber, Engel & Völkers, Corum and Maserati, as well as a new addition for 2019, Cîroc Vodka.

The entrance to the public area is free with delicious local delights and refreshments available from food trucks to keep even the keenest spectators fed and watered throughout the week’s activities.

Some VIP tickets for this three-day polo and party spectacular, including catering for all three days are available from www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Programme of the 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel:

Friday 18th January

11.30am: Corum vs Bendura Bank

12.45pm: Engel & Völkers vs Maserati

2pm: Bernd Gruber vs Cîroc

8pm: Team Captain Dinner at Kitzbühel Country Club (by invitation only)

11pm: Take 5 Polo Club Night

 

Saturday 19th January

11.30am: Cîroc vs Maserati

12.45pm: Corum vs Bernd Gruber

2pm: Bendura Bank vs Engel & Völkers

8pm: Polo Players Night in the VIP Tent (by invitation only/information via Lifestyle Events: (info@kitzbuehelpolo.com)

 

Sunday 20th January

11.30am: Match for 5th and 6th place

12.45pm: Kitzbühel Country Club Cup Finals for 3rd and 4th place

2pm: Final of The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel

3.30pm: Prize-giving ceremony, presentation of Most Valuable Player and Best Playing Pony Awards and photo shoot

 

The 17th Bendura Bank Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel Teams are as follows:

Bendura Bank (12):

Melissa Ganzi (1/USA)

Alejandro Novillo Astrada (8/USA)

Tito Gaudenzi (3/CH)

Engel & Völkers (12):

Kutlay Yaprak (1/TUR)

Agustin Kronhaus (4/ARG)

Adrian Laplacette Jr. (7/ARG)

 

Cîroc Vodka (12):

Sebastian Schneberger (2/GER),

Aki van Andel (3/NED)

Valentin Novillo Astrada (7/ARG)

Bernd Gruber (10):

Eduardo Greghi (0/BRA)

Grant Ganzi (3/USA)

Pierre Henri Ngoumou (7/FR)

 

Corum (10):

Eckhardt Juls (0/GER)

Patrick Maleitzke (4/GER)

Juan Ruiz-Guiñazú (6/ARG)

Maserati (10):

Marc Aberle (1/GER)

Caspar Crasemann (4/GER)

Thomas Winter (5/GER)

 

Commentator: Jan-Erik Franck

Umpire: Mark Holmes

 

The Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel 2019 programme starts on Thursday 17th January, with the team presentations at Hotel zur Tenne in the heart of Kitzbühel village. Following this time-honoured start, matches will get underway on Friday 18th January and continue until the Final on Sunday 20th January. For more information about the event, please click here – www.kitzbuehelpolo.com

 

Photograph courtesy of Snow Polo World Cup Kitzbühel. The photo can be used free of charge for editorial purposes. In this context, you are required to use a photo credit.

Media will find a choice of accredited images at www.kitzbuehelpolo.com/media

http://bit.ly/PressKitzPolo19

If you require high resolution images, please contact kitz@polotimes.co.uk

For journalist accreditation, please contact the Accreditation Office:

Christina Schockemöhle, schockemoehle@sasse-schockemoehle.com Tel + 49 – 171 – 208 5522

For more information and support at the tournament please contact:

English speaking Journalists: Jen Liggins, Call + 44 – 7817 – 254 – 879

German speaking Journalists: Stefanie Stüting, Call + 49 – 171 – 788 2264

 

 

 

 

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