Oak Brook Polo Club

OAK BROOK, IL (May 16, 2022) – It’s a year of celebration for the Oak Brook Polo Club (OBPC) who is proud to announce its 2022 summer schedule, a new field location, the launch of ticket sales on June 1st and the club’s 100th Anniversary! The Cecil Smith Field will mark Oak Brook’s centennial season of polo in addition to being one of the nation’s oldest polo clubs in operation today and the fourth oldest sports property in Chicago.  On select Sundays, from June 26th –September 25th, fans can expect to experience adrenaline-fueled matches between some of the sport’s top players from local neighboring teams as well as from abroad.
 
Located at Butler National Golf Club’s practice golf range (at 700 Oak Brook Road), the Cecil Smith Field is widely known in the sport of polo as an historic and beautiful space located just 17 miles from downtown Chicago.  It was referred to as a “masterpiece” by Oak Brook Polo founder and visionary Paul Butler in a 1962 Sports Illustrated article and embodies the Village of Oak Brook’s long and storied advocacy for sport and outdoor recreation, while being one of the nation’s best residential, commercial and entertainment destinations. 
 
“Oak Brook Polo is undeniably the best secret of Chicago’s western suburbs and the Churchill Downs of polo,” explains Jim Drury, President of the Oak Brook Polo Club. “Oak Brook Polo gives people the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while watching a thrilling sport with friends and family. We are excited to continue to offer spectators a safe and fun activity.  It is our mission to make our matches accessible, affordable, and memorable for everyone who attends, and to reestablish Oak Brook as Chicago’s home for the sport of polo.”
 
Oak Brook Polo was privatized from the Village of Oak Brook in 2016 and is led and supported by Drury whose passion and ongoing commitment to polo is what’s kept the sport alive in Chicagoland for so long.  With many iterations over the years, the first season dates back to 1922 when Butler first established the Oak Brook Polo Club.  He expanded his polo operation to fourteen fields, plus built the necessary horse stables to serve visiting teams. Eventually, Oak Brook became one of the “polo capitals” of the world with Butler’s son – famed producer Michael Butler, and daughter -philanthropist Jorie Butler Kent, acting as the club’s stewards throughout the years.  The summer polo seasons were not only the stomping ground for celebrities and notables alike for decades but also the destination for American Polo players and enthusiasts. Oak Brook was often referred to as “the town that polo built.”
 
Oak Brook’s team, led by Drury (position #4, handicap A) includes Tommy Colingwoode (position #3, handicap-5), Horacio Onetto (position #2, handicap-4), and Herdon Radcliff(position #1, handicap-3).
Oak Brook Polo’s 2022 summer schedule includes the following dates:
  • Sunday, June 26th – Centennial Challenge (Season Opener)
  • Sunday, July 17th – Chicago Polo Invitational (Intra Circuit Cup)
  • Sunday, July 24th – General George S. Patton Jr. Cup
  • Sunday, July 31st – General George S. Patton Jr. Cup Championship
  • Sunday, August 14th – Midwest $50,000 Midwest Cup
  • Sunday, August 21st – Oak Brook Polo Open*
  • Sunday, August 28th – Oak Brook Polo Open*
  • Sunday, September 11th – Butler Challenge/Coronation Cup
  • Sunday, September 18th – Butler International Cup
  • Sunday, September 25th – Butler International Cup Championship
*matches and tournament names are subject to change
New and returning sponsors include U.S. Polo Assn., Heineken, Beyond Shades, NeverAsh, Continental AutoSports, Northern Trust, One Oak Brook Commons, Hilton Chicago | Oak Brook Hills Resort, Tapville Social, Boodles Gin, and 1800 Tequila. Matches will include team “meet and greets,” team parade with introduction, National Anthem singer, and contests for both “best tailgate” and “best hat.”  In addition, Oak Brook Polo Club will host a Centennial Celebration Gala on Friday, September 23, 2022, at Hilton Chicago/Oak Brook Hills Resort.
“Jim Drury (Pineoak Partners) have done a tremendous job preserving the legacy of polo in Oak Brook,” explains Gopal Lalmalani, Village of Oak Brook President.   “Polo is such significant part of our history, and we are very excited to be celebrating 100 years of this illustrious sport in our Village. I would like to personally invite everyone to experience the grandeur and excitement of Polo in Oak Brook during this commemorative season!”
Oak Brook Polo Club ticket sales will begin on Wednesday, June 1st and will include a variety of ticket options starting at $15/pp and include lawn seating; tailgating, VIP Saddle Club (elevated), and reserved field-side tables for 4 to 6 people.   For groups of 20 or more, the Club offers small and large private field-side tented areas ideal for large families, corporate outings, birthday parties and other special events.  For more information, including sponsorships, please visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com or call 847.653. 6242 for details and availability. Ticket prices for special events may differ from traditional pricing.  Subscribe to the e-bulletin for season updates and announcements or follow at Facebook -@oakbrookpoloclub or Instagram – @oakbrookpolo. 
About Oak Brook Polo Club
Founded in 1922 by legendary businessman, Paul Butler, the Oak Brook Polo Club is an American Polo treasure and one of the oldest polo clubs in the United States. It was once the sport’s epicenter for elite professional polo in the United States and served as home to the U.S. Open Polo Championship for twenty-four straight seasons and other prestigious international and national polo tournaments. For decades, the Club has been a popular Sunday tradition and social scene known for entertaining Hollywood celebrities, dignitaries, royalty, and Chicago’s distinguished. Today, Oak Brook Polo Club hosts several Sunday matches and continues to attract thousands of fascinated spectators who marvel at the athleticism and majesty of this timeless sport.
 

The year 2022 marks the 100th Anniversary since the Oak Brook Polo Club was founded in 1922 by businessman and outdoor enthusiast, Paul Butler.

The year 2022 marks the 100th Anniversary since the Oak Brook Polo Club was founded in 1922 by businessman and outdoor enthusiast, Paul Butler. The Polo Club is one of the oldest in the United States that is still in operation today and one of the most legendary and recognized throughout the global polo playing community. 

Paul Butler, consider by many as the Patron Saint of Polo, turned the Oak Brook Polo Club into the home of elite professional polo following World War II. It would soon become the home of the U.S. Open Polo Championships for 24 straight years (longest in one location) and other prestigious tournaments. The United States Polo Association also had its headquarters in Oak Brook.

Oak Brook Polo organizers are working on a number of projects to celebrate this historic occasion from special events to further developing its event and tournament schedule to include more teams and game action. 

By Daphne Ortiz  
P
hotography Michael Butler
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The past months offered various highlights – among others in Zurich, Berlin or China – and even more unforgettable moments of happiness.

It‘s a philosophy of life that has inspired me a lot. Asked in an interview with POLO+10 about his view of things in life, Sébastien Le Page, President of Polo Park Zurich, quotes from a book by Nietzsche: „Master, what shall I do to be happy? The master answers: just be happy!“ In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we unfortunately too often forget to recognize happiness in the moment and to consciously enjoy it. That‘s why I plan to do just that much more in the future!

The past few months have offered various moments of happiness for polo fans and players: Special highlights included the Elasten Ladies Cup at PoloPark Berlin and the 22nd Zurich International Ladies Cup, where the women once again put on spectacular competitions. Polo is also finally making a comeback in China after the enforced break – and if the plans of hotel CEO Sanjiv Ramdanee are anything to go by, guests on the dream island of Mauritius will be able to watch polo show matches in the future.

So let‘s all look forward to the coming season in 2022, which will unfortunately have a few planning uncertainties due to the pandemic, but will nevertheless hold various new moments of happiness in store for all of us.

(Download of issues see below)


Thomas Wirth
Founder POLO+10
©Fedora Stoldt

 

Now enjoy the print & mobile version of POLO+10 WORLD for phones or tablets – fully interactive (click on the ads or weblinks)

POLO+10 WORLD 2022 I Print Version

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Tournaments and people, polo science and lifestyle – the new issue of POLO+10 WORLD brings you stories from the whole polo universe.

+++ Polo Park Zürich 22nd Zürich International Ladies Polo Cup“Bringing in international players to mentor our youngest club members, gathering our local- and guest players to grow our polo family and celebrate our love of polo together; this defines the spirit of the Ladies Cup.” +++ Interview with Sébastien Le PageHe is the president of Polo Park Zurich and one of the most colorful minds on the scene. At the end of the 2021 season, POLO+10 met Sébastien Le Page and talked to him about his very personal season review, plans for 2022, highlights, low points and his philosophy of life. +++ ELASTEN Ladies Cup PoloPark BerlinTeam Ingo Pyko Immobilien wins ELASTEN Ladies Cup 2021. Six ladies polo teams with over 100 polo horses took part in the ELASTEN Ladies Cup at PoloPark Berlin. +++ Open de FranceLa Magdeleine and Polo Park Zürich reach their dream! +++ San Francisco de Asis Polo CupThe classical San Francisco de Asis tournament is always played after the August break. +++ Polo in ChinaPolo in China is getting back: Tang Polo Club China hosted the JJ International Launch Tournament in Anping. +++ SandpoloSandpolo returned to Sandbanks for a September weekend of beach arena polo and after parties. The British Beach Polo Championships 2021 (Sandpolo) adjusted magnificently to the later September date hosting their 14th year event over the weekend (Sept 17-18). +++ SENTEBALE ISPS HANDA Polo CupSENTEBALE ISPS HANDA Polo Cup 2021 raises nearly $3.5 million in critical funds for vulnerable children in southern africa. +++ 100th Anniversary Oak Brook Polo CupThe year 2022 marks the 100th Anniversary since the Oak Brook Polo Club was founded in 1922 by businessman and outdoor enthusiast, Paul Butler. +++ Argentina`s Polo DynastiesThe best polo players in the world come from Argentina. POLO+10 takes a look into the history books and presents famous Argentine polo dynasties +++ Polo in NumbersArgentina, USA and Europe are the big polo nations. More than half of all clubs and players can be found here. But what about the other countries? And how many clubs and players can be found worldwide? POLO+10 did some research and presents the polo universe in terms of numbers. Many thanks to everyone for the great support! +++ The Big Polo HistoryPlaying technique, speed and team spirit – the fascinating sport of polo is attracting more and more people all over the world. An insight into the world of polo. +++ Polo RulesAs in other ball games there are a variety of penalties for fouls in polo. It is important to understand these so as to better follow a game. POLO+10 explain the different foul-situations according to the official rules of the German Polo Association. +++ Windsor Polo ClubWindsor Polo Club had a successful 2020 Spring Season after recovering from bushfires and COVID, and with events slowly returning to “normal”, everyone thought that brighter days were ahead in 2021. Boy, how we were so wrong. +++ Animal physiotherapist and -osteopath Julia Greb6 tips how to improve your horse’s health in everyday life! +++ MauritiusTimeless luxury on the Indian Ocean: The „Maradiva Villa Resort & Spa“ on Mauritius stands up to even the highest demands. A conversation with „Maradiva“ CEO Sanjiv Ramdanee about hotel highlights, breakfast in the afternoon, polo plans and new markets. +++ Long IslandLong Island allows you to travel back to the golden 20s. +++ Six SensesSix Senses Belize to Open with Secret Beach and Private Island. +++

 
© Thomas Wirth
OAK BROOK, IL  – Oak Brook Polo Club announces today that it has entered into a long-term agreement with the Village of Oak Brook to move and host polo operations and competition on the Cecil Smith Field (Field #2) beginning summer 2022 and marking its 100th season. 
Located on Butler National Golf Club’s practice golf range, the field is widely known in the sport of polo as a historic and beautiful space. Village of Oak Brook and Polo Club founder, Paul Butler, called the field a “masterpiece” in a 1962 Sports Illustrated article. Some of the sport’s most legendary and best players have competed on this storied pitch. Tucked away on The Village of Oak Brook’s Sports Core property, just east of the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club and north of the Sports Core Soccer Fields. The field is the highest point in Oak Brook lined with large oak trees older than the field itself.
“The Cecil Smith Field is what Augusta is to golf,” adds Danny O’Leary, Manging Director of Oak Brook Polo Club. “The field is as beautiful as is legendary, with historic matches won and lost, memorable plays and dramatic defeats. This is a proud moment for polo as Oak Brook’s team returns to its home field.”
The Cecil Smith Field embodies the Village of Oak Brook’s long and storied advocacy for sport and outdoor recreation.  It contributes to the Village’s vison of being one of the nation’s best residential, commercial and entertainment destinations. 
During the height of the recession in 2009, Oak Brook Polo Club struggled to find an organizer and as a result, the Village agreed to allow target golf greens being installed on the Cecil Smith Field.  This forced polo to be played on the Prince Wales of field (Field #1), which also operates as the Oak Brook Golf Club’s practice range.  Even  when an organizer returned in 2010, nothing changed.  
In the early 1990s, the polo community demoted Field #1 to a practice field due to flooding and costly repairs as a result. The conditions would greatly affect polo for the next 12 years from an unsafe and unrepairable field to numerous canceled matches and seasons.
“The future of polo in Oak Brook greatly depended on the Club’s  move to Cecil Smith,” explains Jim Drury, President of Oak Brook Polo Club. “Polo now has a brighter future on and off the field as we continue to work on returning our club to its original glory while ushering in a new generation of fans, players and new ideas. And what greater time for this to occur than on the eve of Oak Brook Polo Club’s 100thAnniversary. Village founder, Paul Butler, would be thrilled and overjoyed to see polo return to its ‘masterpiece field’ and original home for Sunday polo festivities.”
Negotiations for polo’s return to Field #2 began in Fall of 2020 with the Village of Oak Brook and Butler National Golf Club and continued for nearly a year until now.  On September 14th, the agreement would be unanimously approved during a Board of Trustees Meeting.
“Polo exemplifies the tradition of what we call ‘restrained good taste’ in Oak Brook,” explains Edward Tiesenga, Oak Brook Village Trustee.  “From a distance it can look effortless, but it’s only due to the great power and grace of the horses combined with the skill and experience of the players.  We look forward to hosting polo teams and spectators from all over the world on the reclaimed historic Cecil Smith field.”
Oak Brook Polo was privatized from the Village of Oak Brook in 2016 and is led and supported by Drury whose passion and ongoing commitment to polo is what’s kept the sport alive in Chicagoland for so long.  It is  one of the nation’s oldest polo clubs in operation today and the fourth oldest sports property in Chicago. 
With many iterations over the years, the first season dates back to 1922 when Polo visionary Paul Butler first established the Oak Brook Polo Club.  He expanded his polo operation to fourteen fields, plus built the necessary horse stables to serve the visiting teams. Eventually, Oak Brook became one of the “polo capitals” of the world with Butler’s son, famed producer Michael Butler, and daughter, philanthropist Jorie Butler Kent, acting as the club’s stewards through the years.  The summer Polo seasons were not only the stomping ground for celebrities and notables alike for decades but also the destination for American Polo players and enthusiasts. Oak Brook was often referred to as “The Town That Polo Built.”
Butler National Golf Club is an exclusive private, members only golf club, located in the western suburb of Oak Brook, Ill.  The club has a traditional 18-hole golf course, previously hosting the Western Open tournament from 1974-1990.  Membership is by invitation only.
The 2022 season and 100th Anniversary kicks off on Sunday, June 26, 2021 on the Cecil Smith Field. Multiple events & activities are planned to commemorate the centennial, including the return of the prestigious “polo ball”, which is scheduled to take placed at the end of the season.
For general information, event scheduling, and parking directions, please call 630.368.5095.
About Oak Brook Polo Club
Founded in 1922 by legendary businessman, Paul Butler, the Oak Brook Polo Club is an American Polo treasure and one of the oldest polo clubs in the United States. It was once the sport’s epicenter for elite professional polo in the United States and served as home to the U.S. Open Polo Championship for twenty-four straight seasons and other prestigious international and national polo tournaments. For decades, the Club has been a popular Sunday tradition and social scene known for entertaining Hollywood celebrities, dignitaries, royalty, and Chicago’s distinguished. Today, Oak Brook Polo Club hosts several Sunday matches and continues to attract thousands of fascinated spectators who marvel at the athleticism and majesty of this timeless sport.
Photos: ©Oak Brook Polo Club
 

Oak Brook Polo Club’s third tournament of the 2021 Season got underway this past Sunday (August 8), with the start of the Chicago Polo Open presented by Heineken.  Returning for its sixth year, this signature polo match took place at the legendary Prince of Wales Field and was between Oak Brook Polo and local rival Beaver Creek.

The afternoon’s theme was “Horses and Hops” which featured the first of two beer festivals presented by Tapville Social. While watching the thrilling polo match, spectators had the opportunity to taste local and Midwest craft brews from a field-side beer garden.

The match-up between Oak Brook and Beaver Creek was the second time these two teams met in the 2021 season. Beaver Creek’s team was comprised of Captain Chris Vangel (Hcap 1), Chad Bowman (Hcap 2), Alfredo Guerenno (Hcap 3), and Lindor Novillo Corvalan (Hcap 4). Oak Brook’s team was led by Jim Drury (Hcap 0), alongside fellow players Tomas Obregon (Hcap 4), Horacio Onetto (Hcap 4), and Mariano Gutierrez (Hcap 4).

Sunday’s match began with the Club’s traditional opening ceremonies presented by Lincoln Way Attorney, Mark Weidman, which included welcoming the hosts of NBC’s Chicago Today show, Courtney Hall and Matt Rodriguez, followed by Chicago food & lifestyle personality D.C. Crenshaw.  Approximately a dozen vintage Land/Range Rovers from members of Chicagoland Rover Club were also present onsite for a pre-match on-field car show and part of the opening ceremony parade. Oak Brook Polo Club president Jim Drury welcomed everyone to match followed by the National Anthem, sung by Alondra Arreola and player introductions.

To begin the match, Beaver Creek was up two goals due to the handicap difference between the teams. Oak Brook’s Obregon scored the first goal of the game followed by two goals form his teammate, Onetto.  Beaver Creek would remain goalless giving Oak Brook a one-point lead going into the second chukker. Oak Brook’s Gutierrez would expand that lead to two and from there, Oak Brook and Beaver Creek would play a game of cat and mouse with Beaver Creek’s Corvalan scoring three goals against Oak Brook’s Obregon and Gutierrez.  At the end of the second chukker, Beaver Creek would close Oak Brook’s lead to one.  In the third chukker Oak Brook’s Onetto and Obregon would score back-to-back goals expanding their team’s lead to 3. Beaver Creek’s Corvalan would answer back with a goal to end the first half 8-6, Oak Brook.

In the second half Beaver Creek got off to a hot start as they held Oak Brook scoreless while putting up two goals by Guerenno and Corvalan to tie the match 8-8.  Corvalan would continue that hot streak going into the fifth chukker by putting up another two goals and giving the Beaver Creek team a two-goal lead over Oak Brook. But Oak Brook’s Onetto and Obregon would answer back with two goals of their own re-tying the match 10-10 going into the 6th and final chukker. Beaver Creek’s Corvalan would be the first to score in the final chukker and give his team a one goal lead and his 8th goal of the match. But that didn’t stop Onetto and Obregon teaming up again for fourth time putting up back-to-back goals and Oak Brook the win with a one goal lead, 12-11.

The Casablanca Polo “MVP” went to Oak Brook’s Obregon while the American Stalls “Best Playing Pony” went to Obregon’s mare.  U.S. Polo Assn. gifts for the match’s runner-up was presented by Alexandra Singer with the Lyon Family Foundation. Runner-up gifts were presented by Marissa Nelums, with Glasshouse Interior and winner’s gift were presented by Lincoln Way Attorney, Mark Weidman.

Oak Brook Polo Club’s next match will be the Championship match of the Chicago Polo Open, presented by Heineken, on Sunday, August 15th @ 3:00 PM. For general information, event scheduling, news, tickets, and parking directions, please visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com or call 630.368.5095. 

 
Match photos by Andrew Meier

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After two canceled matches due to weather, Oak Brook Polo was finally able to kick off their 2021 season on Sunday, July 18th at the Prince of Wales with the Butler Challenge Cup tournament.  Presented by Perillo Downers Grove, the match was against local rival Beaver Creek and featured the popular “Horses & Horsepower” activiation which showcased vintage and new Lamborghinis. 
 
With as many as 20 sleek vehicles stationed aross the field in colors of white, black, red  and florescent, guests were able to get up close and take photos while also meeting car owners.  
 
Oak Brook Polo Club’s opening ceremonies were presented by Lincoln Way Attorney -Mark Weidman and featured PAWS Chicago founder Paula Fasseas followed by Lamborghinis from Perillo Downers Grove and the Lamborghini Club Chicago Chapter.  Jim Drury offered his official “welcome” to attendees which was was followed the singing of the National Anthem by Alondra Arreola and player introductions. 
 
Beaver Creek’s team was led by Chris Vangel (Hcap 1), a patron and player, with Turner Wheaton (Hcap 2), Alfredo Guerreno (Hcap 3), and Lindor Novillo Corvalan (Hcap 4). Oak Brook’s team was led by Jim Drury (Hcap 0), another patron and player whose teammates include Tomas Obregon (Hcap 4), Horacio Onetto (Hcap 4), and Mariano Gutierrez (Hcap 4).
 
To begin the match, Beaver Creek was up 2 goals due to the handicap difference between the two teams.  Oak Brook’s Onetto would quickly close the gap and put up 2 back-to-back goals, but Beaver Creek’s Corvalan would score to give to give his team a one point lead and end the 1st Chukker 3-2. In the second Chukker, Oak Brook would jump ahead by two goals with back-to-back goals from Onetto and one from Gutierrez to end the second chukker 5-3 Oak Brook.  In the final chukker of the half, Beaver Creek’s Wheaton would score, but Oak Brook’s Onetto would return the favor and end the half with a two goal lead 6-4 Oak Brook.
 
The second half got off to a hot start as both teams fought to hold the lead. Oak Brook’s Onetto extended his team’s lead to 3, before Beaver Creek went on a three goal run with goals from  Corvalan and Wheaton to tie the match 7-7. However, Oak Brook’s Onetto would squeeze in one last goal to reclaim the lead 8-7. In the fifth chukker, it was like a boxing bout as both teams exchanged goals one after another beginning with Oak Brook’s Obregon, followed by Beaver Creek’s Corvalan, then Oak Brook’s Onetto, followed by Beaver Creek’s Corvalan again to end the Chukker 10-9, Oak Brook. In the 6th and final chukker, Oak Brook’s Onetto would score to extend his team’s lead by two (11-9), but Beaver Creek’s Wheaton would answer back to close the gap to one and end the match 11-10, Oak Brook.
 
The Casablanca Polo “MVP” went to Oak Brook’s Horacio Onetto who then announced Jennifer Gaeto has the matche’s “Best Hat” winner.  The American Stalls “Best Playing Pony” went to Lindor Novillo Corvalan’s pony “Maria” presented by Patty Brand Napela.
 
Runner-up gifts were presented by Michael & Joyce Meaden and winners gift were presented by Lincoln Way Attorney -Mark Weidman. Other team gifts included PAWS Chicago t-shirts and U.S. Polo Assn. duffle bags.
 
Oak Brook Polo Club’s next match will be the championship match of the Butler Challenge Cup on Sunday, June 25th @ 3:00 PM. For general information, event scheduling, news, tickets and parking directions, please visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com or call 630.368.5095. 
Photos by Andrew Meier

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Oak Brook Polo Club and Chicago Polo Association hosted its last match of the 2020 summer polo season on Sunday, September 27th with the finals of the USPA Butler International Cup presented by Merrill Lynch.   In front of a sold out and socially distanced crowd, the United States defeated Argentina 13-12, in the finals of the ten-day tournament where teams representing the United States, Argentina, Germany and Switzerland have been competing for a chance to engrave their name on the prestigious cup.  Team rosters were as follows:

United States (3-1)
Champion
Mariano Gutierrez (4)
Tomas “Toto” Obregon (4)
Horacio Onetto (4)
Jim Drury (0)

Argentina (3-1)
Runner-Up
Larry Aschebrook (0)
Juan Martin Gutierrez (3)
Juan Martin Obregon (5)
Matias Obregon (4)

Switzerland (1-3)
Richard Harris (0)
Pedro Manion (3)
Facundo Obregon (6)
Miguel Gutierrez (3)

Germany (1-3)
Frauke Lueders (0)
Jan Lueders (0)
Anthony Garcia (5)
Mariano Obregon (7)

 

Argentina led the entire tournament winning each of its three preliminary matches, including the first match against the United States. Results of the 2020 USPA Butler International Cup tournament matches are below:

Friday, September 18th:             
Argentina (8) def. United States (7)

Friday, September 18th:             
Switzerland (8) def. Germany (4)

Sunday, September 20th:            
Argentina (9) def. Germany (7)

Sunday, September 20th:             
United States (7) def. Switzerland (6)

Wednesday, September 23rd:    
United States (13) def. Germany (10)

Wednesday, September 23rd:    
Argentina (13) def. Switzerland (10)

Friday, September 25th:             
Consolation – Germany (8) def. Switzerland (5)

Sunday, September 27th:            
Championship – United States (13) def. Argentina (12)

 

The trophy was first played for in 1986 between Oak Brook and HRH Prince Charles’s Wales Polo Team.  In response to this year’s enormous interest from international teams wanting to visit Oak Brook combined with the demand for tournament level competition, the Butler International Cup was transformed into a 12-Goal United States Polo Association (USPA) Nationally Sanctioned tournament.  Prior to the 2020 Season, the tournament had commitments from teams representing six countries (United States, Canada, Jamaica, Wales, Switzerland and Argentina), however, due to COVID-19, travel restrictions and quarantine mandates, players traveling from multiple countries overseas were forced to cancel their participation.

“We knew this would be our most intense match of the season,” explains Jim Drury, President of Oak Brook Polo Club.  “As the US team, we hoped to defend possession of The Butler International Cup. After losing our first match to Argentina. we were in a hole.  To win the Cup, we would have to defeat each of the other countries in the final matches. Being able to hold the trophy at the end – was indeed a proud moment!”

The Championship match was held as Oak Brook’s historic Prince of Wales Field and began with opening festivities including the traditional team parade led by Ronald Vassar in a 2020 Corvette Stingray and Mark Weidman in a 1986 Mercedes-Benz convertible.  Passengers included Reute Butler, President of the Friends of Conservation and granddaughter of Oak Brook Polo Club’s founder, Paul Butler, as well as Monica Patankar, Miss Illinois for America 2019.   Prior to the introduction of players and ball roll-in, Oak Brook Polo Club President Jim Drury welcomed spectators followed by the Argentine anthem and United States anthem performed by The Singing Men of Oak Brook.

The first chukker got off to a quick start as both teams were competing to get on the scoreboard first and take an advanced lead. The United States’ Horacio Onetto claimed the first goal of the match, but Argentina’s Juan Martin Gutierrez answered back. Onetto would score again for the U.S. only for Argentina’s Juan Martin Obregon to return the favor and end the first chukker tied at 2-2. In the second chukker, Argentina’s J.M. Obregon would give the lead his team was looking for by putting up two goals for 4-2 lead. U.S.’s Onetto would go on to score his third goal, but J.M. Obregon would hold Argentina’s lead of two points and end the second chukker 5-3. In the third chukker, J.M. Obregon would extend the Argentine team’s lead to three, but U.S.’s Onetto would close that gap with two back-to-back goals to end the first half 6-5, Argentina.

In the fourth chukker, Onetto and teammate Mariano Gutierrez would go on to score four goals while putting on an impressive display of defense, along with Tomas Obregon and Jim Drury, to keep Argentina scoreless and take the lead ending the fourth chukker 9-6.  But the U.S. was caught off guard in the fifth chukker as Argentina proved that they were a worthy opponent. Argentina’s J.M. Obregon would go on a four-goal streak to catch up and reclaim his team’s lead at 10-9.   U.S.’s Onetto would re-tie the match 10-10, but Argentina’s J.M. Gutierrez would snatch that away, followed by another goal from U.S.’s Onetto tying it 11-11. I in the sixth and final chukker, it was anyone’s match.  Spectators were on the edge of their seats witnessing the best polo play all season. Argentina’s J.M. Obregon would score the first goal of the chukker and give his team a one goal lead at 12-11. After scoring ten goals for his team, Onetto would give the reins to his teammate, Gutierrez who would go on to help tie and score the winning goal for the U.S. to end the match 13-12.

Following a special thank you and season ending remarks by Gopal Lalmalani, President for the Village of Oak Brook, the awards ceremony began. Casablanca Polo’s “Most Valuable Player” was presented by Monica Patankar to Horacio Onetto for his impressive ten goals. Casablanca Polo’s “Best Playing Pony” was presented by Sheryl Srivastava to Chick, owned by Onetto.  Runner-up trophies and gifts were presented by Chicago Tribune’s RaMeka Johnson and Tatiana Rybka, while the winners’ trophies and Butler International Cup were presented by Reute Butler.  Butler also made a special presentation and awarded gifts to Jim & Peggy Drury, and Danny O’Leary for their continued support of the Friends of Conservation.

Oak Brook Polo Club is located at 2606 York Road, seventeen miles from downtown Chicago. For general information, event scheduling, and parking directions, please call 630.368.5095 or visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com.

 

Photos by Judith Coleman

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Sunday, September 20th marked the halfway point of the 2020 USPA Butler International Cup where four teams representing four countries have been competing to determine who will play in the final match on Sunday, September 27th.  Argentina is currently in the lead of the United States, Germany, and Switzerland. Results and remaining schedule of the 2020 USPA Butler International Cup are as follows:

• Friday, September 18th : Argentina (8) vs. United States (7)
• Friday, September 18th : Switzerland (8) vs. Germany (4)
• Sunday, September 20th : Argentina (9) vs. Germany (7)
• Sunday, September 20th : United States (7) vs. Switzerland (6)
• Wednesday, September 23rd : Germany vs. United States
• Wednesday, September 23rd : Argentina vs. Switzerland
• Friday, September 25th : @ TBA  Consolation Final
• Sunday, September 27th : Consolation Final or Championship Match

Presented by Merrill Lynch, the Butler International Cup, wraps up Oak Brook Polo Club’s 98th Season as well as the Chicago Polo Association’s 12-Goal Season.  The famous trophy was first played in 1986 between Oak Brook and HRH Prince Charles’s Wales Polo Team.  This year the Cup has been transformed into a 12-Goal United States Polo Association (USPA) Nationally Sanctioned tournament.

As of Sunday, September 20th, the current Butler International Cup standings are as follows:

Argentina (2-0)
Larry Aschebrook (0)
Juan Martin Gutierrez (3)
Juan Martin Obregon (5)
Matias Obregon (4)

United States (1-1)
Mariano Gutierrez (4)
Tomas “Toto” Obregon (4)
Horacio Onetto (4)
Jim Drury (0)

Switzerland (1-1)
Richard Harris (0)
Pedro Manion ( 3)
Facundo Obregon (6)
Miguel Gutierrez (3)

Germany (0-2)
Frauke Lueders (0)
Jan Lueders (0)
Anthony Garcia (5)
Mariano Obregon (7)

 

Argentina leads the field with two wins and zero loses, solidifying their spot in theButler International Cup championship match   All eyes will be on Switzerland and the United States to see which team earns the second spot. If both teams win, a shootout will occur to determine who will be playing Argentina in the finals. If Argentina loses it will be three way tie and shootout.

“This is what we had hoped to achieve from this tournament,” explains Oak Brook Polo Club Managing Director, Danny O’Leary.  “The culmination of a fun and competitive 12-goal season with participation from other countries who are also ending their professional seasons as well. These teams are playing at their peak, which makes for some of the best watched polo.”

The Butler International Cup tournament kicked off last Friday, September 18th between Argentina and the United States at Las Brisas Farm & Polo Club in Elgin, Illinois.  Argentina took an early lead in the first two chukkers before the U.S. grabbed a 5-4 lead at the half thanks to Horacio Onetto’s three back-to-back goals in the third chukker. Argentina’s Juan Martin Obregon would return the favor with three of his own between the fourth and fifth chukker, forcing the U.S. to play catch up. Argentina’s Matias Obregon would score the final goal for Argentina giving them the lead and win.

That same afternoon, Switzerland would play Germany at Arranmore Farm & Polo Club in Oswego, Illinois. In this match, Switzerland’s Facundo Obregon would come out strong putting up three of his six goals in the first chukker. With help from his teammates Pedro Manion and Miguel Gutierrez, the Swiss team would hold their lead for the entire game, while holding Germany to four goals and ending the match 8-4, Switzerland.

On Sunday, September 20th, Argentina would play Germany in the morning at Las Brisas Farm & Polo Club.  Like Switzerland, Argentina would start the match strong by putting up three goals compliments of Matias Obregon, who would go on to score two more goals before the half.  With support from teammate Juan Martin Obregon, the Argentina team would end the first half with a five-goal lead over Germany. In the second half, Germany made a strong comeback scorning five goals to Argentina’s two, coming within three goals shy of winning the match. A strong display offense and defense by Germany, but not enough.

That afternoon, the United States would play Switzerland at the Prince of Wales Field in Oak Brook, Illinois. This match started with a much slower pace as both teams defended each other well until the end of the second chukker which was tied 1-1. In the third chukker, the U.S. would breakaway with four goal lead thanks to Tomas Obregon and Horacio Onetto. In the second half, Switzerland would turn up the heat scorning five goals to the United States’ two goals. In the final thirty seconds, Switzerland’s Pedro Manion stole the ball from the U.S. and nearly tied the game in the final few seconds.

The tournament continues on Wednesday, September 23rd with matches between Germany and the United States, as well as Argentina and Switzerland. These matches will be held at private fields and are not open to the general public.  For match results, please follow the Oak Brook Polo Club on Facebook and Instagram.

Oak Brook Polo Club is located at 2606 York Road, seventeen miles from downtown Chicago.A variety of ticket options are available at www.oakbrookpoloclub.com. For general information, event scheduling, and parking directions, please call 630.368.5095 or visit www.oakbrookpoloclub.com.

Photos by Andrew Meier

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HRH Prince Charles’s Wales Polo Team Returns to Oak Brook for Butler International & Prince of Wales Cup

The Centtrip Wales Polo Team (owned by HRH Prince Charles) returns to Oak Brook on Sunday, September 8th at 3:00 p.m. to compete for the prestigious Butler International & Prince of Wales Cup at the Prince of Wales Field.  Spectators are invited to don their ‘British best’ as both teams face off in a 9-goal, four chukker, international championship match.

 
Oak Brook Polo Club has a long history of hosting teams from other countries and is honored to have the Wales team return for its third year.  The Butler International & Prince of Wales Cup was inaugurated in 1986 when the England Team, captained by Prince Charles, played against Oak Brook. It was Michael Butler who invited the Prince to play, which turned into a four-day visit to Chicago and Boston.  A 4-goal polo player at the time, Prince Charles would play his premier U.S. appearance with a British team at Oak Brook.
 
“We are thrilled to have the Wales Team return to Oak Brook for a 3rd straight year,” explains Jim Drury. “The old days of Oak Brook Polo are re-emerging and re-establishing the club as a plant for international polo competition.”
 
Centtrip Wales will be captained by Ricky Cooper (Hcap 0), and includes Pete Webb (Hcap 5), Rupert Lee-Uff (Hcap 0) and Tomas “Toto” Obregon (Hcap 4) on loan from the Oak Brook team. Merrill Lynch Oak Brook is led by team patron and captain Jim Drury and includes Horacio Onetto (Hcap 4), Mariano Gutierrez (Hcap 4) and Chris Vangel (Hcap 1).
 
“On behalf of Prince Charles, we are thrilled to see this relationship and match re-emerge to become an annual fixture on our team’s calendar,” explains Cooper.  “Last year’s visit was a memorable experience and we’re honored to be invited back for a rematch for the coveted Butler International Cup.
 
In addition to Sunday’s polo match, the afternoon will be filled with many festivities, including a pre-event LOUIS XIII tasting ($75 per person) beginning at 11:30 AM in the Saddle Club & Polo Lounge. Guests will be welcomed with champagne followed by the ultimate LOUIS XIII experience including history, flavors and aromas of the century-years-old cognac.   A limited number of tickets are available.
 
An on-field rally of 10-20 awarding winning Ford Model T’s from members of the Ford Model T Club of America will be on display for guests to view.   In addition, event sponsor Perillo Downers Grove, will be showcasing new Bentley, Rolls Royce and Lamborghini cars.
 
The match welcomes charity partner, Jackson Chance Foundation (www.jacksonchance.org) which provides families access to the best hospitals, neonatal specialists, surgical abilities and nursing staff that they otherwise may have to turn down because of the high cost of parking. Guests will have the opportunity to donate directly or take part in a series of raffles for luxury prizes.
 
As with each match, guests can take part in the J Vineyard & Winery halftime “Divot Stomp,” Hinsdale Living’s “Best Hat Contest” or visit Burning Bush Millinery to purchase a headpiece. Tailgaters are welcome to decorate their spot and compete for Heineken’s “Best Tailgate” to be awarded at the end of the polo match.
 
The national anthem will be sung by 15-year-old Mirabella Logan and the Wales and Great Britain anthems will be performed by bagpiper, Christopher Coomes.
 
The match, which is part of the International Polo Series, is sponsored by Merrill Lynch, Perillo Downers Grove, Hinsdale Living Magazine, Centtrip, Chicago Luxury Beds, New Castle, Heineken, and The Hyatt House Oak Brook / Chicago.   In the last three years, Oak Brook has featured matches with teams from Jamaica, India, Mexico and Great Britain.
 
2019 marks Oak Brook Polo Club’s 97th season as one of the nation’s oldest polo clubs in operation today and fourth oldest sports property in Chicago. Once considered the “polo capital” of the world Oak Brook was the destination for American Polo players and enthusiasts.   
 
Oak Brook Polo Club is located at 2606 York Road, seventeen miles from downtown Chicago.  A variety of ticket options are available at www.oakbrookpoloclub.com. For general information, event scheduling, and parking directions, please call 630.368.5095.
 
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