United States Polo Association

North America, Polo News

10. July 2020

The Newport International Polo Series will host the Vanderbilt Cup Presented by Vanderbilt International Properties on Saturday, July 11 at 5pm, in a rivalry that dates back to the Gilded Age, pitting the Vanderbilts against the Astors in an action-packed 6-chukker ride off.

Presented by Vanderbilt International Properties Ltd., a boutique real estate firm specializing in luxury homes, private club properties, and condominium development programs in Newport and Bristol Counties as well as in far reaches of the world. Vanderbilt International Properties is a proud, long-time supporter of Newport International Polo.

“While we represent many buyers and sellers for unique luxury properties, we are happy to work with everyone from first home buyers to helping a client find the perfect cozy cottage” explains Principle Broker Stacie Mills. “We believe in building long term relationships with our valued clients, many who become friends”.

The polo matches are one of destination Newport’s unique traditions & renown attractions, dating back to 1876 when Newport’s sporting set founded America’s first polo club. Members of the Vanderbilt family were among the earliest players of the new pastime.

Rivals in business and New York society, the Astors, Vanderbilts and other notable scions would convene annually in Newport for summer retreats. As leisure & sporting pursuits became the gentlemanly form of one-upmanship, dueling fell out of fashion and several new traditions became mainstays including Polo, Sailing, Tennis, Golf, and eventually automobile racing, among lasting American institutions. Influencers of their day, they brought about many cultural changes from sports, art, technology and social & political reform, shaping Newport’s rise to prominence to this day as an international seaside sport and resort destination, and one of America’s most desirable places to live and work.

Gilded Age themes will provide inspiration for the Stella Artois Tailgate Contest, back by popular demand as the world’s #1 Belgian beer, Stella Artois toasts the most spirited Newport Polo fans each Saturday. Special guest judges scout the perimeter to find the most festive Tailgate, Picnic Patch or Pavilion Table, awarding a coveted prize and Jumbotron moment of fame.

Color commentary is provided by William Crisp, arguably the most highly respected polo commentator in the world. The match will begin with an Official Coin Toss following player introductions and the US National anthem, with a half-time intermission, and conclude with the Newport Polo Fan Salute around the perimeter, a tradition originating at the Newport International Polo Series in 2003, and now emulated at polo clubs around the world, and the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Toast & Trophy Presentation with representatives from Vanderbilt International Properties awarding the sterling silver Vanderbilt Cup, inaugurated in 2010.

Under a State-approved plan including reduced capacity with socially-distanced tables in the Davitt Pavilion, fieldside Tailgates and Picnic Patches on the lawn from which to view the matches at the polo grounds, sold-out audiences have enjoyed the Newport International Polo Series polo matches every Saturday since Opening Day on June 6, where spectators for generations have witnessed the timeless sport unfold across an argyle-patterned emerald green at Glen Farm, home of the Polo Series for the past 28 seasons, in a classic exhibition of horsemanship and valor, with host, the Newport Polo Club, where the home team – Newport/USA – meets challengers each season from around the world and as well as teams representing major US cities and regional rivals.

Safety being a top priority, RI State approved COVID-19 safety measures are in effect at the polo grounds this season including online sales, masks required when not seated, social distancing and greatly reduced capacity. Read full details

The Polo Series is scheduled to continue for the next 12 weeks, every Saturday through September. The schedule of teams is subject to change, as per State mandates in effect at the time, on international travel and Adult Sports. Tickets are by online reservation only, supported by a Wait List, at www.nptpolo.com.

The International Polo Grounds are located on the acreage of Glen Farm, 250 Linden Lane (off of Rte. 138) in Portsmouth, RI. This bucolic setting is the last 100 acres of a pre-colonial settlement from the 1600’s that became the Town of Portsmouth’s original gentlemen’s farm, an 800-acre manorial estate established during a Gilded Age movement of retreat from the high life into pastoral country acres.

Its classical 19^th century stone barns and its park-like grounds were rehabilitated by Polo Series founder, Dan Keating in the early ‘90’s and continue to thrive as an equestrian & community recreational property, and home of the Polo Series.

Minutes from the bustling Newport waterfront, the polo grounds’ proximity to the shore provides a cooling coastal effect for late afternoon polo throughout the summer, continuing a 5-week trend of mild summer weather conditions in the weekend forecast.

The Newport International Polo Series is proud to present its 2020 sponsors including Gallo|Thomas Insurance, Davitt, Boston Common, Hotel Viking, The Chanler, The Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina, Vanderbilt International Properties, Veuve Clicquot, Clarke Cooke House, Stella Artois, ROCKSTAR Limo, Atria Senior Living, Goslings, McGrath Clambakes and Catering, and promotional partners including The Cocktail Guru, Newport Jaguar Tours, Newport Helicopter Tours, America’s Cup Charters, International Tennis Hall of Fame, Newport Mansions, Island Surf and Sport, Newport Sport Fishing Charters, Providence River Boat Company, and Newport Harbor Guide. Special thanks to Schultz Marketing Partnerships, Van Liew Trust, Tanglewood, and WCRI Classical Rhode Island. “Our sponsors have been with us since the beginning. Without their support, the Series would not be as extensive as it is,” explains Dan Keating, Polo Series founder.

For specific details about the players, concessions & amenities for this match, plus venue information and other details, sign up to receive the Game Day Briefing on Saturday, by private subscription (sign up). Stay current with all 2020 season announcements, latest news & event invitations, and more by subscription to our monthly eMagazine (sign up). Both subscriptions are private and spam-free.

RAIN DATE: If a regularly scheduled match is canceled prior to its start (due to weather/field conditions), the match will be postponed to the following day, Sunday at the same time. All original polo match tickets & seating reservations will be transferred to the rain date. For more details on our ticket policies, please follow this link. Attendees are advised to come prepared for all weather conditions, as existing shelter is reserved. In inclement weather, always check the Match Status recording on our Info Hotline (401) 846-0200 x2 and for Alerts published on our website, both of which are updated with any status change for the impending match.

This is the 29th season of Newport International Polo Series, which has hosted teams from 34 nations including, Ireland, Germany, Spain, England, Argentina, France, Egypt, India, Australia, Costa Rica, Ghana, Canada, Chile, Jamaica, Nigeria, Portugal, New Zealand, Barbados, Scotland, South Africa, Hungary, Dominican Republic, Netherlands, Kenya, Brazil, China, Italy, Mexico, Sweden, Singapore, Monaco, Morocco, Peru, and Poland.

Polo, since 600 b.c. Polo is, without doubt, the oldest ball game in the world today. First recorded in the 6th century b.c. when the Turkomans beat the Persians in a diplomatic tournament, the alluring game caught on with equestrian royalty and cavalry, and took off with globalization, withstanding the tests of time. By the time Polo arrived on Newport’s shores during the Gilded Age, the sport was nearly 2500 years steeped in tradition, captivating newcomers like Newport’s summer sporting set who embraced the new pastime, establishing America’s first polo club in 1876. A charter member of the United States Polo Association the club today is still a trailblazing model polo club, hosting the Newport International Polo Series public exhibition matches, supporting philanthropic causes, organizing USPA tournaments, polo club member services and polo instruction year-round. Experience the king of games in its American landing at Newport Polo.

© Thomas Wirth

The Newport International Polo Series will host the Vanderbilt Cup Presented by Vanderbilt International Properties on Saturday, July 11 at 5pm, in a rivalry that dates back to the Gilded Age, pitting the Vanderbilts against the Astors in…

North America, Polo News

USPA Intra-Circuit Tournament

1. July 2020

This Sunday held the sought after 2020 USPA Intra-Circuit final. This tournament holds great importance at the Santa Barbara Polo Club and with the United States Polo Association. The final match was played between Antelope Jr., reigning champions from the Folded Hills Pope Challenge Tournament, and Dundas, who was undefeated in their bracket for this tournament.

Striking from the field to open up the first, Juan Monteverde was quickly countered by a series of three consecutive goals as Dundas fired between the posts. Adding their second tally to the scoreboard, Antelope Jr.’s goal was met once more by back-to-back goals from 7-goaler Santi Torres to close the second chukker 5-2 in favor of Dundas. “Our strategy was simplicity,” Siegel-Magness said. “Our game plan was playing man to man and making sure we each worked together to clear the space to make runs to goal. While defense was our first priority, we then transitioned to a strong offense.” Consistently producing a goal per chukker, Monteverde saw an opportunity to capitalize on a Penalty 2 conversion early in the third. Dundas sprung into action with another offensive attack to increase their growing lead by five and with all team members contributing to the scoreboard by halftime 8-3.

Returning in the second half with a Penalty 4 conversion, Monteverde continued to keep Antelope Jr. in the fight as the only member to score so far. Picking up another three, Dundas maintained their steady upward trajectory with undeniable strategy, concentration and determination. Rising to Antelope Jr.’s aid in the fifth chukker, Felipe Vercellino answered back with two goals, yet Dundas relentlessly added three more to their tally to end the fifth with a significant lead 14-6. Hammering in two final goals to bring his total to eight, Torres created a deficit virtually unconquerable by their opponents at such a late stage in the game. Launching three goals of his own in the final minutes, Monteverde’s effort could not overcome the disparity and Dundas was named 2020 champions winning 16-9.

“I’m extremely grateful to my team,” Siegel-Magness said. “Santi [Torres] was injured early in the season and having him come back so quickly and strong was amazing. Mariano [Fassetta] and I have been playing together for a few years and this win meant so much because he spends so much time working with me on drills and technique. Also, watching my pilot Juan Cruz [Marcos] shine in his first 12-goal tournament and seeing his personal progress was exciting for me.”

Responsible for five of Dundas’ total goals, Juan Cruz Marcos, was named Most Valuable Player. “For me it was a great experience, plus this was my first season in the United States and I‘m very happy to be participating in USPA tournaments,” Marcos said. Best Playing Pony honors were presented to Cypress (River Dance x Magnolia), played by Santi Torres as a spare throughout the game with four appearances and bred and owned by Valiente.

In addition to the trophy, Dundas also received $2,500.00 in prize money from participating in the COVID-19 USPA Polo Tournament Stimulus Package. “I gave the prize money to my team to pass on to the grooms,” Siegel-Magness shared. “Our grooms make all this possible and they deserve to be recognized for a job well done. I appreciate them so much and they work so hard to keep both the players and horses safe!”

About Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club
Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is the premier destination for summer polo. Players and Patrons from all across the globe call Santa Barbara their home for the summer, bringing world class polo to the Southern California coast. No spectators will currently gather for matches due to COVID-19. We are taking all precautions during the 2020 season including weekly testing, face-masks, and social distancing. Please visit the Spectator Information page for more information.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit our website, www.sbpolo.com.

Photos: © David Lominska

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This Sunday held the sought after 2020 USPA Intra-Circuit final. This tournament holds great importance at the Santa Barbara Polo Club and with the United States Polo Association. The final…

Polo News

United States Polo Association Suspends Polo – COVID-19 Updates

18. March 2020

Due to rising health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the recommendations by the CDC and the White House to cease all gatherings of more than ten people, we have made the difficult decision to immediately suspend all USPA Tournaments and Events, including the ongoing GAUNTLET OF POLO and the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship for the next 14 days.

To stay informed on official updates and news, please visit uspolo.org.

For inquiries related to stadium tickets, please contact boxoffice@internationalpoloclub.com. For inquiries related to Pavilion brunch tables, please contact brunch@internationalpoloclub.com

While we are temporarily not playing polo, we will be showing original content so continue to follow us at Globalpolo.com.

The United States Polo Association, the International Polo Club Palm Beach, USPA Global Licensing Inc. and Global Polo Entertainment encourages everyone to take precautions recommended by the CDC and take care of your families and loved ones as we face these difficult times.

© Thomas Wirth

Due to rising health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the recommendations by the CDC and the White House to cease all gatherings of more than ten people, we…

North America, Polo News

U.S. OPEN WOMEN’S POLO CHAMPIONSHIP™ BENEFITTING SUSAN G. KOMEN® FLORIDA RETURNS TO SOUTH FLORIDA

6. March 2020

Partnering with the International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC) and Port Mayaca Polo Club in Southern Florida for the second year in a row, the United States Polo Association® (USPA) will host the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship™ (18- to 22-goals), March 12-21. Eight teams, including the 2019 champions, Hawaii Polo Life, comprised of women players from across the nation and around the world will be taking the field to compete in the most prestigious women’s tournament in the country. The U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship™ will benefit Susan G. Komen® Florida, the leading breast cancer foundation.

“The U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship™ represents the future of women’s polo as the number of women competing at the 18- to 22-goal level continues to climb,” said Robert Puetz, CEO of the USPA. “Bringing together the best American and international players, the tournament is both a showcase and a celebration of the achievements in women’s polo on a global scale. Since relocating to South Florida during the GAUNTLET OF POLO®, the apex of high-goal competition, the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship™ has attracted a record eight teams for the second consecutive year.”

The most celebrated cup in women’s polo in the United States, the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship™ has a profound history dating back to the 1930s in California. The first women’s U.S. Open tournament was presented by the United States Women’s Polo Association (U.S.W.P.A.) in 1937 at the Golden Gate Field in San Francisco, California. On the centennial anniversary of the USPA in 1990, a U.S. Women’s Open was officially sanctioned and held at Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. It was officially recognized as a national tournament in 2011 and has since become America’s largest annual women’s polo event.

Winning the 2019 championship in their first year, Hawaii Polo Life will be returning for the chance to defend the trophy, competing with two members of the original championship team.

BTA/The Villages and San Saba (this year co-sponsored by Polo Gear) will also be returning for the high-profile women’s event. The remaining five teams (Cowdray Vikings, Dundas, Iconica, Mint Echo Car Wash, Rocking P) will be competing for the first time for an opportunity to capture the title.

Arguably one of the best women’s players in the world, British 10-goaler Hazel Jackson will be competing, representing Rocking P. An international event, the tournament rosters boast players from four countries including the United States, Argentina, England and Kenya. One all-American team, BTA/The Villages, will be gracing this year’s competition. The USPA is also happy to announce that the tournament will serve as a Women’s Championship Tournament (WCT) Qualifier, The Sunny Hale Legacy.

Following the Draw Party on Thursday, March 5, at the 7^th Chukker Restaurant & Lounge at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, Florida, play will begin March 12 at Port Mayaca Polo Club in Okeechobee, Florida. Co-sponsored by the official apparel brand of the USPA, U.S. Polo Assn., the official draw determines the playing order for the tournament. Additionally, U.S. Polo Assn. will giveaway custom designed Susan G. Komen® Florida t-shirts during the tournament final’s halftime divot stomp. The final will be hosted on Saturday, March 21, at the International Polo Club Palm Beach on the U.S. Polo Assn. Field with gates opening at 11:00am EDT and the match beginning at 1:00pm EDT.

Coverage of the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship™ matches will be livestreamed on Global Polo TV. Please register for free access on GlobalPolo.com. For more information on the tournament please visit uspolo.org. Spectators are encouraged to attend the preliminary matches at Port Mayaca Polo Club and the Championship Final at International Polo Club Palm Beach on U.S. Polo Assn. Field 1. General admission is free for all events. To purchase tickets for brunch, tailgate or box seats for the final, which will feature a pink tailgating competition, please click here.

About the United States Polo Association®

The United States Polo Association (USPA) was organized and exists for the purposes of promoting the game of polo, coordinating the activities of its Member Clubs and Registered Players, arranging and supervising polo tournaments, competitions and games, and providing rules, handicaps, and conditions for those tournaments, competitions, and games including the safety and welfare of participants and mounts. Founded in 1890, the United States Polo Association is the national governing body for the sport of polo. USPA is currently comprised of almost 300 member clubs with thousands of individual members, and oversees 40 national tournaments. For more information, please visit uspolo.org.

About U.S. Polo Assn.

U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the nonprofit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States founded in 1890, making it one of the oldest sports governing bodies. With a global footprint of $1.7B and worldwide distribution through 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores, department stores, independent retailers and e-commerce, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel for men, women and children, as well as accessories, footwear, travel and home goods in 180 countries worldwide. Recently ranked the 4th largest sports licensor and 36^th overall in License Global magazine’s 2019 list of “Top 150 Global Licensors”, U.S. Polo Assn. now takes its place alongside such iconic sports brands as Major League Baseball, National Football League and National Basketball Association.

About the International Polo Club Palm Beach

The International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC) is the premier polo destination in the world, hosting the largest field of high-goal teams and the most prestigious polo tournaments in the United States. Polo enthusiasts descend upon Wellington, Florida, each winter season to enjoy their love of the sport at the most prominent polo facility in the country. The 2020 Palm Beach Polo Season opens Sunday, December 29, 2019 and concludes 17 weeks later with the U.S. Open Polo Championship® Final on Sunday, April 19, 2020. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating that includes elegant grandstand viewing, field tailgating, field-side champagne brunch at The Pavilion, and exclusive sponsor boxes. See more at www.internationalpoloclub.com.

About Port Mayaca Polo Club
Situated in South Florida, surrounded by vast sugar cane fields and the popular fishing body of Lake Okeechobee, Port Mayaca Polo Club has steadily become a destination for winter polo. Located on more than 600 sprawling acres, the club has eight regulation fields, club barns with 220 stalls, two exercise tracks, a stick-and-ball field, a clubhouse and several acres of pastures for turnout and trail riding. Quality polo is at the forefront of the club’s objectives and a tight-knit sense of community supports it.

www.uspolo.org

© Thomas Wirth

Partnering with the International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC) and Port Mayaca Polo Club in Southern Florida for the second year in a row, the United States Polo Association® (USPA)…

North America, Polo News

U.S. Polo Assn. Announces Henry Porter, Professional Polo Player

20. November 2019

U.S. Polo Assn. Announces Henry Porter, Professional Polo Player, as Global Brand Ambassador Focusing on United Kingdom, Europe & Middle East

U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand for the United States Polo Association (USPA), is proud to announce polo player Henry Porter as the newest member of its growing roster of global brand ambassadors.

The scope of Porter’s role as global brand ambassador is focused on the United Kingdom, broader Europe and the Middle East, where he grew up as a youth and continues to spend much of his time as a professional player. Porter will shine the spotlight on the dynamic crop of young polo players coming up through the ranks by posting regularly on social media about his activities and by fully engaging in media requests for interviews and campaigns. He’ll be outfitted in U.S. Polo Assn. jerseys, apparel and gear both on and off the polo field.

Now 20, Porter began riding horses at age 5 and has been playing polo since age 9. He recently won the Copa Presidente (20 goal) trophy in Argentina and will play for Santa Clara for the 2nd Annual GAUNTLET OF POLO™. Born in London, Porter had his first-ever polo lesson in Dubai with Martin Valent, who remains his manager today. He now commutes between homes in Florida and England.

“Ever since that first lesson 11 years ago, I fell in love with the sport and I‘m fortunate that my passion has become my career,” said Porter. “I’ve worked hard training for every opportunity I’ve had. One of my most memorable was playing the East Coast Open and winning the trophy,” Porter recalled.

With an extremely bright future ahead of him, Porter’s dream is to be a top-rated professional polo player by improving his handicap year over year. He has already competed at some of the largest polo games in the world, winning the “high goal” East Coast Open, the FIP World Cup Zone Final, the Mansion Cup, the Bronze Trophy at Sotogrande and the 50K National 12-Goal two years in a row. He also reached the final of the Ylisvakier Cup in the U.S. as well as has competed in the illustrious Westchester Cup and the prestigious GAUNTLET OF POLO™ Series held at the International Polo Club in South Florida.

“Having Henry represent U.S. Polo Assn. in some of our most important international markets on and off the field is a win-win. He is not only a tremendous young athlete who continues to get better each year but is one of the true gentlemen of the game,” said J. Michael Prince, President and CEO of USPA Global Licensing. “I have watched Henry play in games around the world that have included teaming up with Prince Harry in the King Power Royal Charity Cup to playing at the highest level in the United States at the U.S. Open Polo Championship®. We are excited to have him be part of our global ambassador lineup.”

When he’s not striving to advance his polo skills, Porter is studying business at the Repton School in Dubai, whose academic program is based on British National Curriculum and is accredited by the Cambridge and London University Exam Boards. Porter also stays active playing tennis and golf and he enjoys skiing.

“I’m really honored to have been chosen as a global brand ambassador for such an authentic sport-inspired brand like U.S. Polo Assn. that does so much for the sport and players,” said Henry. “I look forward to gaining great exposure with both the new and loyal fans and followers of the sport by sharing my fast-paced polo activities and my exciting travels.”

About U.S. Polo Assn. and USPA Global Licensing Inc. (USPAGL)

U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the nonprofit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States founded in 1890, making it one of the oldest sports governing bodies. With a global footprint of $1.7 billion and worldwide distribution through 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores, department stores, independent retailers and e-commerce, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel for men, women and children, as well as accessories, footwear, travel and home goods in 180 countries worldwide. Recently ranked the fourth-largest sports licensor and 36th overall in License Global magazine’s 2019 list of “Top 150 Global Licensors,” U.S. Polo Assn. now takes its place alongside such iconic sports brands as Major League Baseball, National Football League and National Basketball Association.

USPA Global Licensing Inc. (USPAGL) is the for-profit subsidiary of the USPA and the exclusive worldwide licensor for the USPA’s global licensing program. USPAGL manages the global, multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand and is the steward of the USPA’s intellectual properties, providing the sport with a long-term source of revenue. USPAGL also produces global broadcasts to bring the sport of polo to consumers and sports fans around the world including the GAUNTLET OF POLO™, the sport’s new high-goal $1 million prize money series played on U.S. Polo Assn. Field.

About Brand Machine – United Kingdom

The Brand Machine Group houses a diverse and industry-leading portfolio of fashion and sports brands, including U.S. Polo Assn., across clothing and accessories with over 35 years of experience. A global licensing specialist, partnering with recognized market leaders managing a seamless and collaborative process of designing, manufacturing and delivering quality product whilst championing the DNA of our brands, The Brand Machine Group is the official U.K. and Ireland partner for U.S. Polo Assn. menswear and the European partner for U.S. Polo Assn. childrenswear.

www.uspolo.org

©Thomas Wirth

U.S. Polo Assn. Announces Henry Porter, Professional Polo Player, as Global Brand Ambassador Focusing on United Kingdom, Europe & Middle East U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand for the United…

Europe, Polo News

U.S. Polo Assn. Named Official Apparel Partner of Germany’s Prestigious Engel & Völkers Berlin Maifeld Cup

20. August 2019

The Event Will Take Place at Historical Olympic Park Where One of America’s Greatest Athletes, Jesse Owens, Shattered Records & Broke Barriers in the 1936 Summer Olympics

U.S. Polo Assn., the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA) announced it will serve as the official apparel partner for the prestigious Engel & Völkers Maifeld Cup. The event will be held at the Maifeld Berlin Polo Club starting August 16^th with the finals scheduled for August 25th. The finals will be played on the Maifeld fields at historic Olympiapark, which served as the Olympic Park for the 1936 Berlin Summer Olympics.

The Maifeld Cup, also referred to as the German High Goal Polo Championship, has become one of the most prestigious and popular polo events in Europe. This high-profile event not only attracts polo players from around the globe, but also influencers from the worlds of entertainment, business, culture, politics and sports. With the historic Berlin Olympic Stadium looming in the background, the event offers a spectacular setting for the 10-day tournament with eight highly competitive teams vying for the championship.

“We are thrilled to be the apparel partner at this very prestigious and important polo event in Germany, which, along with the rest of Europe, is a major market for U.S. Polo Assn.” said J. Michael Prince, President & CEO of USPA Global Licensing, which manages the multi-billion-dollar U.S. Polo Assn. brand. “We are also very humbled to be able to sponsor this event which takes place in one of the truly special and historic venues in sports, as the backdrop of Olympiapark is where one of America’s most admired athletes, Jesse Owens, shattered records and broke barriers by winning four gold medals in the 1936 Berlin Summer Olympics.”

As the official apparel partner for the event, U.S. Polo Assn. will produce custom designed performance jerseys for all players as well as custom uniforms for umpires and specially designed outfits for event staff. In addition, there will be a “pop-up” shop with a curated apparel collection at the event, providing tournament attendees with an opportunity to both commemorate the event and take home a piece of the polo lifestyle.

“As the organizing agency of the Maifeld Polo Cup 2019, we are looking forward to partnering with U.S. Polo Assn. as our official apparel partner, with its authentic connection and long history with the sport of polo,” commented Moritz Gaedeke, Co-CEO of Sevendays Polo Event GmbH. “The playing ground for the final matches, the Maifeld, is one of the world’s most renowned polo fields within Olympic polo stadium and a perfect setting for Germany’s most prestigious tournament.”

U.S. Polo Assn. and USPA Global Licensing Inc. (USPAGL)

U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), the nonprofit governing body for the sport of polo in the United States founded in 1890, making it one of the oldest sports governing bodies. With a global footprint of $1.7B and worldwide distribution through 1,100 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores, department stores, independent retailers and e-commerce, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel for men, women and children, as well as accessories, footwear, travel and home goods in 166 countries worldwide. Recently ranked 4th largest sports licensor and 36th overall in License Global magazine’s 2019 list of “Top 150 Global Licensors,” U.S. Polo Assn. now takes its place alongside such iconic sports brands as Major League Baseball, National Football League and National Basketball Association.

USPA Global Licensing Inc. (USPAGL) is the for-profit subsidiary of the USPA and the exclusive worldwide licensor for the USPA’s global licensing program. USPAGL is the steward of the USPA’s intellectual properties, providing the sport with a long-term source of revenue. USPAGL also produces global broadcasts to bring the sport of polo to consumers and sports fans around the world including the GAUNTLET OF POLO, the sport’s new high-goal $1M prize money series played on U.S. Polo Assn. Field.

www.uspoloassnglobal.com

INSTAGRAM: @USPOLOASSN

Thomas Wirth, POLO+10

The Event Will Take Place at Historical Olympic Park Where One of America’s Greatest Athletes, Jesse Owens, Shattered Records & Broke Barriers in the 1936 Summer Olympics U.S. Polo…

North America, Polo News

Team Pilot takes home the historic Butler Handicap trophy

1. February 2019

by United States Polo Association

After Dutta Corp and Pilot’s Sunday, January 27, featured match on the U.S. Polo Assn. Field 1 at International Polo Club Palm Beach (Wellington, Florida) was postponed due to rain, the game was rescheduled for Thursday, January 31. Competing not only for top ranking in their Ylvisaker Cup bracket, the two teams challenged one another to take home the historic Butler Handicap trophy. Dutta Corp’s undefeated season, having swept both the Herbie Pennell Cup and the Joe Barry Cup, was ended by Pilot who assumed the lead from the second chukker to claim victory and the trophy 10-8.

As an enhancement to the Ylvisaker Cup tournament, the Butler Handicap trophy was presented in honor of Paul Butler and his close friendship with Bill Ylvisaker. Established at Oak Brook Polo Club (Oak Brook, Illinois) in 1954 in honor of Paul Butler, his litany of polo accomplishments, including 29 dedicated years on the USPA Board of Governors, warranted a commemorative tournament. Oak Brook Polo Club also played a large role in Bill Ylvisaker’s polo career. In 2014, due to the combined efforts of the Butler family and the USPA, the historic Butler Handicap was officially adopted as a national USPA event.

Dutta Corp predicted a strong force in their first matchup against Pilot, with formidable 10-goaler Facundo Pieres on the roster, and made a sizable effort to remain one step ahead of their opponents in the first chukker. After several minutes of battling for possession, Lucas Diaz Alberdi cut the ball between the goal posts to earn Dutta Corp’s first goal of the game, intercepting a tailshot by Curtis Pilot. Taking advantage of Kris Kampsen’s precision from the penalty line, Dutta Corp picked up a Penalty 2 conversion, but was matched soon after by Pieres. Although Timmy Dutta was working hard to keep defenders at bay, Pilot began to pull ahead in the second with three consecutive goals, one from the field and two Penalty 2 conversions. Leaving Dutta Corp scoreless, Pilot took the lead for the first time 4-3 headed into the third. Closing in on halftime, both teams played with discipline, sticking to their men and creating room for their teammates to score. Trading goals twice and making quick, strategic plays, Pilot came out with a narrow lead 6-5 at halftime.

In a second half dominated by Pieres, Pilot continued to rally around their offensive machine, shutting out Dutta Corp once again in the fourth. Picking up his fourth goal of the day, Diaz Alberdi barreled between the goal posts just ahead of Matias Gonzalez*. Retaliating with two strong goals from the field, Pieres expertly maneuvered his way past a pack of defenders to end the fifth 9-6 in favor of Pilot. Running out of time to make their comeback, Dutta Corp made a solid bet on Kampsen who delivered from the Penalty 4 line. Demonstrating his 10-goal status, Pieres took his seventh goal of the day, Dutta Corp unable to create enough momentum to overtake him. Dutta Corp added one more off the stick of Gringo Colombres with just over a minute remaining in the sixth, but ultimately could not subdue Pilot’s excellent team play, surrendering the win 10-8.

Pilot’s Matias Gonzalez was named Most Valuable Player. “I got a call from Facundo Pieres about organizing a team in Florida when I was finishing up playing the high-goal season in Dubai,” Gonzalez said. “I traveled to Argentina with Pilot before coming here.” Best Playing Pony honors were awarded to Argentine chestnut mare Open Kattia (Ellerstina Picaro x Karenza), a 9-year-old competing in her second season in the U.S. played by Facundo Pieres in the fifth chukker.

The Ylvisaker Cup continues on Sunday, February 3, with a full day of polo. For the most updated schedule of games and times please visit uspolo.org.

by United States Polo Association After Dutta Corp and Pilot’s Sunday, January 27, featured match on the U.S. Polo Assn. Field 1 at International Polo Club Palm Beach (Wellington, Florida) was…

North America, Polo News

New US Polo Series offers $1,000,000 prize money

4. September 2018

The United States Polo Association (USPA), the International Polo Club Palm Beach (IPC) and USPA Global Licensing (USPAGL) have finalized an agreement for the 2019 tournament series, which will offer a first-ever prize money component with a potential payout of $1,000,000. This highly-anticipated season offers a strong 20-goal and 22-goal level schedule that concludes with the top three most prestigious USPA national tournaments, C.V. Whitney Cup, USPA Gold Cup® and the U.S. Open Polo Championship® under one umbrella. Team interest is very high and early indications are showing a historic number of team entries at 16-20 for the series.

The tournament series will include a “Winner Take All” prize money format for the first time in history that will guarantee $125,000 to each of the winners of the C.V. Whitney Cup and the USPA Gold Cup and $250,000 for the winner of the U.S. Open Polo Championship®. An additional incentive for teams competing in all three tournaments will be a $500,000 bonus for any team that wins all three tournaments in consecutive order, yielding a total of $1 million dollars in prize money.

“The decision to move from 26-goals to 22-goals for the last three major tournaments of the Florida high-goal season has been made in an effort to enhance interest and participation in American polo at its highest level,” said Robert Puetz USPA CEO. “We are pushing to increase spectator turnout in 2019, while creating more opportunities for American players. The level of team interest is inspiring and we look forward to watching the competition unfold in what promises to be the most exciting high-goal season ever.”

“This is the first time that the USPA, IPC and USPAGL have come together in a three-way partnership to create a pinnacle series of high-goal polo to elevate not only the spectator experience but to reveal the team owners and players as the heroes and professional athletes that they are,” said David Cummings, chairman of USPAGL. “Also, U.S. Polo Assn., the Official Brand of the U.S. Polo Association, is privileged to have the naming rights to Field # 1 – the ‘Home of U.S. Polo Assn.’ What better way to show our authentic connection to the sport of polo in America?”

“The new format is very exciting for our organization as we look towards the 2019 high-goal season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach,” said Mark Bellissimo, managing partner of the Wellington Equestrian Partners (WEP). “In order to grow interest in the sport, it is essential that a platform is established for new and upcoming players to get involved. We believe that moving from a 26-goal format to a 22-goal format will increase those opportunities. Supported by the immense addition of prize money and our unprecedented partnership with the USPA and USPAGL, the 2019 season will be one of our most successful yet at IPC.”

During the 2019 season, IPC will also expand the venue’s Polo School, which began taking clients and students in 2018, increase the presence of the venue’s permanent stick-and-ball simulator for practice, and host a thrilling season-long Gladiator Polo™ Series in the newly constructed sand arena at the venue, which was finished at the end of the 2018 season.

The series will culminate with the U.S. Open Final the third weekend of April. The USPA will continue to livestream the high-goal USPA tournaments on the USPA Polo Network (uspolo.org) and the final match of the U.S. Open Polo Championship, which will take place on the third weekend of April, will be aired on CBS Sports.

www.uspolo.org

North America, Polo News

Pilot’s perfect record predicts Iglehart Cup results

16. March 2018

Succumbing to Pilot in their first game of the tournament, La Indiana was granted another opportunity to rectify their one loss in the Iglehart Cup Final on Thursday, March 15, at the International Polo Club in Wellington, Florida. Despite a strong comeback in the sixth, La Indiana was unable to stop Pilot’s offensive drives and they ultimately took the trophy 11-9.

Utilizing the strong defensive skills of their teammates to create breaks, Facundo and Gonzalito Pieres opened the first with two commanding goal shots from the field. Winning the next throw-in and galloping straight to goal, La Indiana countered with two impressive goals of their own. Excellent blocking from Timmy Dutta kept Facundo Pieres well out of La Indiana’s reach throughout the first half, as he thundered across the field relatively unchallenged, easily picking up two field goals by the end of the second chukker to double up the score 6-3 in favor of Pilot.

“It was a pleasure to play with Curtis as a team,” Dutta said graciously. “He and I go back and forth, one of us to one guy one to the ball, it’s amazing. We knew that after playing La Indiana before they were going to come back even stronger in the finals, so we had to prepare, but I think we did well today.” Benefiting from penalty conversions, La Indiana slowly began to close the deficit with strong plays by Facundo Obregon and Toro Ruiz, ending the half trailing by one 6-7.

Making the only goal with a shot approximately 40-yards from the posts, Ruiz played a fearless fourth chukker. Diverted temporarily in the fourth, Pilot’s prowess accelerated them into the lead in the fifth with three consecutive goals by the Pieres brothers. Once in possession of the ball, Facundo Pieres surged forward, dodging the mallets of defenders as he rode out in front free and clear. Starting off the sixth 10-7 with Pilot leading, La Indiana would have to elevate their game in an attempt to overtake the lead.

Aggressive plays by both sides led to two pivotal penalty conversions for La Indiana, providing the motivation they needed for a final push. The clock ran down as La Indiana searched desperately for the equalizer. In the final moments however, Facundo Pieres would seal Pilot’s victory with a goal from the penalty line, his eighth of the game, bringing the final score 11-9.

His first time competing in a high-goal final, Curtis Pilot enjoyed every moment of the experience. “It was a fantastic win, we played La Indiana which I think is one of the best teams to play because they are very aggressive,” Pilot said. “We have great horses and a great organization with Gonzalo de la Fuente.”

Responsible for four out of nine total goals for La Indiana, Toro Ruiz was named Most Valuable Player. Best Playing Pony honors were awarded to So Easy, a 12-year-old mare ridden by Gonzalito Pieres in the second and sixth chukkers. “She’s a mare that has played in the [Argentine] Open with me many times, she in the last one too, and I decided to bring her because I knew she was going to help me a lot—and it’s happening,” Gonzalito Pieres said with a laugh. “She is bred from an American mare called Easy Go, that Facundo [Pieres] bought from Charlie Armstrong, and a stallion named Picaro.”

The USPA Polo Network will livestream both the USPA Gold Cup® and the Carlos Gracida Cup on Saturday, March 17, beginning at 10:30 am ET from the International Polo Club Palm Beach.

www.uspolo.org

Succumbing to Pilot in their first game of the tournament, La Indiana was granted another opportunity to rectify their one loss in the Iglehart Cup Final on Thursday, March 15,…

North America, Polo News

Butler Handicap: Valiente does it again

12. March 2018

Following their C.V. Whitney Cup victory last weekend against Colorado, Valiente never lost focus and found themselves in an identical final on Sunday, March 11, at the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, Florida. Poised to capture their second 26-goal tournament title, Valiente delivered in the second half to claim the Butler Handicap Final 11-8.

Play started off evenly in the first as both teams traded goals at a rapid pace. Despite the fluidity of smart plays between Adolfo Cambiaso and Facundo Pieres, Magoo Laprida and Diego Cavanagh showed no signs of intimidation and pursued them confidently on the field to score. “Our energy is good and we are having fun,” said Cavanagh. “We enjoy being together not only on the field, but also in the barn, having mate, just being all together; we are having a great season.” Colorado’s one-goal lead due to handicap diminished early in the second chukker as Cambiaso outwitted defenders twice to tie the game 4-all. Striking hard offensively, Laprida out maneuvered his opponents in the next throw-in and picked up his second consecutive field goal. Leaving Valiente scoreless in the third, Colorado retained the lead after Diego Cavanagh hit a beautiful pass to Juan Britos ending the half 6-4.

A blocking call against Colorado resulted in the first penalty conversion of the game, Pieres expertly sinking the Penalty 2. Unleashing a wave of powerful plays on Colorado with laser-like precision, Pieres proceeded to accumulate four additional unanswered goals by the end of the fifth chukker. Utilizing Cambiaso and Tommy Beresford as strong defenders, Valiente focused on blocking Colorado’s attempts to gain possession which allowed Pieres free reign on the field.

Headed into the final chukker 9-6 in favor of Valiente, Colorado had yet to score since the first half. Capitalizing on a Penalty 2 opportunity, Cavanagh converted the goal, his second of the game. Creating space for himself to position the ball, Cambiaso worked down the field and hit a massive shot just to the inside of Colorado’s goal posts. Playing full out until the final horn sounded, Laprida skillfully edged out Cambiaso for the final goal, but the tournament went to Valiente 11-8.

Rob Jornayvaz* had nothing but great things to say as he stood next to his team following the game. “I think we did a really good job on defense, this was probably one of the toughest games this team has had to play. I feel really good about how we are going into the next tournament, everybody is having fun and played amazing.”

Contributing five of Valiente’s 11 goals, Adolfo Cambiaso was named Most Valuable Player. Best Playing Pony honors were presented to Tanita, an American Thoroughbred owned by J5 Equestrian and played by Cambiaso in the fifth chukker.

Following the trophy presentation, Bob Jornayvaz was happy to share his thoughts on the game. “We are all getting to play and practice together now and it makes such a huge difference. Same with Colorado, Rob’s team finally got to play together, and I think Juan just played really well. It’s just fun, with Adolfo and Facundo, watching those two guys together is amazing. We are doing what we are supposed to in polo and that is have fun. We had some wide-open polo and a couple of chukkers with no penalties which is great. The horses were flat out, and I hope it was a good game to watch, because it was a great one to play in.”

www.uspolo.org