Tournament Recap Archives - Page 2 of 4

3rd Annual Woodford Reserve Polo Classic

December 13, 2014July 14, 2014 by

July 13^th was a beautiful day for polo at the San Diego Polo Club. Patrons were in for a real treat with our wonderful sponsor Woodford Reserve offering delicious tastings of their Kentucky bourbon. It was a day filled with equestrian fun, including a lovely Pa De Dux Dressage Demo.

Woodford Reserve Bourbon is hand crafted in small batches. This artisanal process allows Woodford Reserve’s all five sources of bourbon flavor to have a distinct taste and crisp, clean finish. Their tasting booth sampled the Woodford Reserve Bourbon paired with dark chocolate and dried cranberries.

In the first match of the day at 1pm, we had San Fernando vs Twin Palms/San Judas. In the 1st Chukker Roberto Estudillo scored the first goal of the match, followed by Ashton Wolf. Ashton then scored two more goals for Twin Palms/San Judas in the 2^nd Chukker followed by one by Eugenio Garza who was subbing for Ramon Richard on Twin Palms/San Judas. In the 3^rd Chukker Diego Velarde scored two goals via penalty shots for his team San Fernando. Topo Mendez scored anther as well for Twin Plams/San Judas. At the half time break it was 3-5 in favor of Twin Palms/San Judas.

The 4^th Chukker, started off with a goal by Diego Cossio, and then one by Diego Velarde, both for San Fernando. Ashton Wolf scored one as well for Twin Palms/San Judas. The 5^th saw Diego Cossio again, followed by Chris Maloney scoring 2 more for Twin Palms/San Judas. The excitement got heavy in the 6^th and final Chukker as Diego Velarde and Adolpho Ramos for San Fernando. Followed by Topo Mendez scoring anther for Twin Palms/San Judas to bring it to a tie. Chris Maloney scored another for Twin Palms/San Judas to break the tie, but due to a foul, it did not count, sending the match into over time. Diego Velarde finally scored the winning goal for San Fernando in the over time 7^th Chukker.

During our intermission was a lovely we had a wonderful Pa De Dux. It was a Prix St. Georges level Pas de Deux by Joy Rothe and Sarah Pinney, riding full sister and brother Oldenberg horses Rolex and Rohan. The two horses seemingly danced together to music often mirroring their upper level Dressage movements to match the beat of the music and the rhythm of the horses.

We had the lovely Christina Peterson a 19 year old local pop singer/songwriter who has performed at Humphrey’s by the Bay, Petco Park, and Qualcomm Stadium. She is a student at San Diego State and also enjoys performing for non-profit organizations such as the Make a Wish Foundation and the American Cancer Society.

We also had the very talented Jill Courtemanche Millinery showcasing her fabulous hats for people to do a little shopping for their perfect hat. Just in time for Opening Day at the Del Mar Racetrack.

Woodford Reserve did the honors of throwing in the ceremonial first ball for the feature match.

The 2^nd match of the day at 3pm was between Woodford Reserve and Herradura Tequila. John Eicher started out the first chukker of the match with a goal for Woodford Reserve. Followed up by one by Diego Larreglia. Colton Bancroft then scored one for Herradura Tequila.

In the 2^nd Chukker Virgil Kyle made another for Woodford Reserve. Graham Bray and Chris Collins also both scored for Herradura Tequila.

For the 3^rd Chukker there was another goal scored by Colton Bancroft, followed by Graham Bray. Virgil Kyle scored one for Woodford Reserve. At the half time it was 5-6 in favor of Woodford Reserve.

Coming into the 4^th Chukker, Herradura Tequila made another 4 goals, two by Colton Bancroft, one by Chris Collins, and one by Graham Bray. In the 5^th and 6^th Chukkers Graham Bray made another 2 goals and Chris Collins 1 to finish and win the game for Herradura Tequila. The match ended with a total of 7-11 in favor of Herradura Tequila.

Written by Cara Helminski

Photos by Arielle Vey (social) & Matt Bentley (action)

Chambord Vodka Classic 2014 Recap

December 13, 2014July 10, 2014 by

Sunday, June 29th was another beautiful day here at the San Diego Polo Club– a bright, breezy polo-filled afternoon. With our fantastic sponsor Chambord Vodka in attendance, we had a festive purple and pink theme to the tents to match their blackberry flavored liqueur and vodka. Patrons enjoyed tastes of Chambord Vodka & Liqueur while watching the action on the field.

The PEERS Network & Challenged Athletes Foundation were also in attendance as proud supporters of Sunday Polo.

The first match at 1pm between Starmeadow/MonteVerde and Twin Palms/San Judas, started of with a bang when Jennifer Alexy scored the first goal for her team, Twin Palms/San Judas. Colton Bancroft also scored for Starmeadow/MonteVerde. The match ended with at Twin Palms/San Judas at 9 and Starmeadow/MonteVerde with 10, taking the win.

Guests of all ages attended the Sunday Polo event, from tailgating to the VIP tent!

At intermission we had a fun and informative polo demonstration by Diego Velarde and Diego Larrreglia. They showed us all some great moves and demonstrated the basic hitting positions and rules, while announcer, Steve Lewandowski broke down the line of the ball and a bit about strategy.

Anthony Ballard, a long time polo fan and a San Diego resident with 20 plus years of singing, locally and abroad, sang our national anthem beautifully.

A representative of the Challenged Athletes Foundation, Jeffrey Odom, did the honor of throwing in the first ball. Jeffrey is a former F-16 Crew Chief for the United States Air Force and Captain of Team USA Wheelchair Rugby. The Challenged Athletes Foundation also have a space at the event that showcased how they help those with physical disabilities.

It is the mission of the Challenged Athletes Foundation® (CAF) to provide opportunities and support to people with physical disabilities so they can pursue active lifestyles through physical fitness and competitive athletics. CAF believes that involvement in sports at any level increases self-esteem, encourages independence and enhances quality of life.

The second match of the day at 3pm was an exciting one with San Fernando vs Team Chambord. San Fernando dominated, scoring the first 3 goals of the match in the first chukker. The talented John Eicher scored 4 of the 9 goals for his team, Team Chambord.

However, San Fernando was still able to capture the win. The match ended with San Fernando at 11 and Team Chambord at 9.

Pan-American Cup Finals & Local Heroes Celebration

December 13, 2014July 7, 2014 by

The patriotic spirit was everywhere on Sunday as we enjoyed The Pan American Cup Finals on Sunday July 6^th. It was the perfect way to cap off an amazing 4^th of July weekend. Red, white and blue was abundant, from our lovely patrons stylish attire, to the tablecloths and trophy decorations.

In the first match at 1:00pm, Topo Mendez scored the first goal in Chukker 1 for his Team Twin Palms/San Judas. Followed by John Eicher with one for Leisure Society. Then another by Virgil Kyle for Leisure Society and the last by Ashton Wolf for Twin Palms/ San Judas, wrapping up Chukker 1. In Chukker 2 Jennifer Alexy bringing one in for Twin Palms/ San Judas, followed by anther for Leisure Society by John Eicher.

Ryan Robertson finished it off by scoring a goal for Leisure Society in the last chukker, bringing the final score to 11 to 9, Leisure Society.

During our intermission, we had a wonderful demo by The Oceanside Police Canine Officers Association.

Spectators were on the edge of their seats watching the dogs go through their amazing skills. Demonstrating a variety of tactics to assist their human counterparts in the safe and efficient handing of dangerous situations. Spectators were then invited to enjoy picture ops with the dogs and service men and woman.

The Oceanside Police Canine Officers Association thanks you for being here this afternoon. Their nonprofit, established by the officers in 2013, bridges the gap for our K9s healthcare, training tools, and retired police dogs. In the line of duty, sometimes our dogs get injured requiring expensive veterinary care. Their goal is to be able to have funds available for each of our 4 canines should a medical emergency occur. Thanks to donations from our generous community members, their dogs can stay healthy and safe, while they protect and serve.

We also hosted the Del Mar Lifeguards, Del Mar Ranger, San Diego Fire & Rescue and local EMTs.

The Lifeguard Department serves the community with a wide variety of community service programs. The Department staffs permanent and seasonal lifeguards. Lifeguards patrol and oversee 2.5 miles of beach. Each day, lifeguards establish and maintain safe swimming and surfing areas. They warn visitors of dangerous swimming areas, rip currents, and unstable cliffs and bluffs. Environmental conditions are constantly monitored and weather and surf are updated and posted throughout the day. The Del Mar beach has very strong rip-currents and several inshore holes. The department averages 1,400 water-related rescues and 1,100 medical aids per year.

The Lifeguards are highly trained in several areas. Qualifications include being emergency medical technicians with advanced airway and defibrillator accreditation. The department operates year-round cliff, swift water and scuba rescue teams. The Department also cross trains for mutual aid responses with the Aerial Support to Regional Enforcement Agencies (ASTREA) and the United States Coast Guard.

Our national anthem was sung by the lovely, Rhianna Wilson, a 16 years old and just finished her Sophomore year at Ramona High School. She has had the honor to sing the National Anthem for the SD Padres, Ceremonies aboard the USS Midway, KSON Radio and many community events.

The feature match of the day at 3:00pm was between San Fernando and MonteVerde/Starmeadow. The match started with Diego Cossio scoring the first goal of the match for San Fernando in the first Chukker. Followed by one by Diego Velarde and one by Roberto Estudillo. With Chris Collins scoring one for his team MonteVerde/Starmeadow. Followed by Colton Bancroft and Graham Bray coming in to score 4 goals each for MonteVerde/Starmeadow. It was a close game ending with Diego Velarde scoring 3 goals for San Fernando and taking home the win.

Written by Cara Helminski

International and Local Polo Players Kick Off 2014 Season with Opening Day at the San Diego Polo Club

December 13, 2014June 2, 2014 by

Opening Day at the San Diego Polo Club reached a record breaking 3,200 attendees on Sunday, June 1, 2014. Polo fans and San Diego socialites flocked to Rancho Santa Fe for two thrilling polo matches, a fashion show, live DJ and plenty of people watching.

Land Rover of San Diego brought in a fleet of gorgeous 2014 Range Rover Evoques and Range Rover Sports, which was the main focal point during the fashion show & presenting ceremonies.

The well-dressed attendees enjoyed mingling in the Polo Pavilion presented by Riviera Magazine, watching the match from the VIP tent, toasting champagne glasses in the garden section and bumping into friends in the general admission area.

We had a few craft cocktails on draft, including a strawberry rhubarb Woodford Reserve julep and Herradura Tequila Flor de Paloma, two of our favorites. Guests also enjoyed an assortment of spirits, local craft beer, hand selected wines, and of course, champagne!

Our Sunday Polo Kitchen is presented by The Wild Thyme Company, offered plates to share (their cheese plate is delicious) or more traditional sandwiches, salads (another favorite is the beet caprese salad) and daily specials.

Their food is both classic and trendsetting while maintaining the highest standards of culinary excellence with an emphasis on seasonal options. The full menu can be seen online here.

Land Rover of San Diego’s Sales Guide, Matt Deep threw in the ceremonial first ball to kick off the 7-goal polo match. Team Rancho Santa Fe battled it out against team Del Mar.

Mia Bray (subbing for Colton Bancroft), Kimo Huddleston (subbing for Ashton Wolf), Graham Bray and Mike Manno made up team Rancho Santa Fe (6-goal team). New to SDPC, Emma Stachowitz, Jennifer Alexy, and John Eicher joined resident player Diego Cossio to make up team Del Mar (7-goal team). Because team Rancho Santa Fe is 1-goal lower than team Del Mar, a point is put on the board in favor or the lesser team.

Things started off slowly in the first half with two points for each team. Both Kimo Huddleston and Mia Bray scored for Rancho Santa Fe. John Eicher and Diego Cossio scored for Del Mar. Mia Bray and Graham Bray both scored in the second half, pushing their team into the lead. Jennifer Alexy scored one in the 4th chukker and Diego Cossio scored two more in the 5th and 6th chukkers. Although each team scored the same amount of points, Team Rancho Santa Fe was crowned victorious due to the lesser handicap.

During intermission, Raina Leon Style & Design presented the 2014 Opening Day Fashion show, featuring local boutique, Van de Vort. Sunglasses were provided by another locally owned brand, RAEN. Men’s fashion was sponsored by J.Hillborn.

After the fashion show, the feature match began with the parade of teams led by Matt and Patrick of Land Rover San Diego. Nationally acclaimed and Grammy Nominated Songtress, Sacha Boutros sang our National Anthem.

Sacha impressed the crowd with her amazing vocals.

Riviera Magazine’s partners threw in the first ball to kick off the 3pm match.

The 3pm match was between sponsors Woodford Reserve and Herradura Tequila. Ellen Greenhill, David Samaniego, Christopher Collins Jr, and SDPC president, Chris Collins made up team Woodford Reserve. Ramon Richard, Roberto Estudillo, Diego Velarde and Topo Mendez made up team Herradura Tequila.

The first chukker started off hot with 3 goals on the board for Woodford Reserve, scored by David Samaniego (2) and Christopher Collins Jr (1). Both Ramon Richard and Diego Velarde scored for team Herradura. Christopher Collins Jr. kept up the momentum by scoring an additional two in the second chukker. Topo Mendez scored 1 for his team. By the 3rd chukker, the score was 6 to 4 in favor of Woodford Reserve.

During half time, guests were encouraged to step onto the grass for the traditional champagne divot stomp presented by Korbel California Champagne.

Flutes of Korbel Brut Champagne and Korbel Rose Champagne were served from the backs of four beautiful Land Rover Evoques by our Van de Vort models.

Team Herradura Tequila increased their defensive strategy and didn’t allow team Woodford Reserve to score any in the 4th chukker, while Diego Velarde put one through the goal posts. In fact, their defense was so effective, team Woodford Reserve was not able to score for the remainder of the game. Team Herradura Tequila kept posession of the ball. Ramon Richard scored another goal and Diego Velarde scored two more for his team. Diego Velarde had the most goals on the afternoon: 5. Team Herradura Tequila beat Woodford Reserve 8 to 6.

Publisher of Riviera Magazine, Jessica Cline, joins winning team Herradura Tequila on the trophy deck to present trophies.

Sponsor, Armando Flores of Charco Design & Build poses with team Herradura Tequila before giving away an authentic Woodford Reserve polo jersey to a lucky fan.

With a San Diego’s beautiful people, it’s no wonder Opening Day at the San Diego Polo Club is such a fashionable affair.

DJ Here kept the party going by spinning beats until dusk.

Although we celebrated Opening Day at the San Diego Polo Club on June 1, the fun doesn’t stop. Join us every Sunday until the end of September for action-packed polo and family-friendly fun! See the schedule for more details.

USPA Spreckels Cup Finals & Closing Day

December 13, 2014October 4, 2013 by

Doesn’t it seem like Opening Day was just yesterday? Time flies when you’re having fun!

On Friday, September 27, Twin Palms/San Fernando played Starmeadow/Monteverde for the chance to play on Sunday in the Spreckels Cup Finals. Starmeadow/Monteverde beat Twin Palms/San Fernando 12 to 9 and confirmed their match against Hanalei Bay the following Sunday.

The 2013 San Diego Polo Summer Season came to an end on Sunday, September 29, 2013 with the USPA Spreckels Cup Finals. In addition to the USPA Spreckels Finals, over 1,000 attendees enjoyed equestrian entertainment, an opportunity drawing to benefit Prince Harry’s charity, Sentebale, and After Party presented by Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach.

We started the day with the Sundance Hills Drill Team, a group of six dedicated riders who put hours into meeting, practicing and perfecting their patterns and routines.

The Santa Fe Hunt/West Hills Hounds is a Masters of Fox Hounds Association, MFHA, recognized Hunt located in Temecula, in southern California. They are a diverse group of riders, brought together by love of horses, open spaces, country values and riding with a fine pack of foxhounds as they work a scent. They came out with about a dozen riders and hounds.

Land Rover of San Diego and Porsche of San Diego had a fleet of luxury automobiles, including the 2014 Porsche Panamera. Last Closing Day, president Ron Bonaguidi purchased a 2013 Range Rover from Land Rover of San Diego. Ron said Jason Puga, owner of Land Rover of San Diego, is a great business man and he’ll never purchase another Range Rover from any other dealership. His service is incredible and affordable.

Danielle Pizorni, San Diego opera singer, blew us away with her rendition of the National Anthem.

Joe Allis of Porsche of San Diego threw in the ceremonial first ball. In the history of Spreckels Cup finals, there has never been a match so exciting and evenly matched as Sunday’s. With 8 chukkers and at least 5 broken mallets, the competition was one of the best we’ve ever seen here in San Diego.

Hanalei Bay vs. Starmeadow/Monteverde

Krista Bonaguidi (-1)                       Ellen Greenhill (-1)
Ashton Wolf (3)                           Colton Bancroft (0)
Mariano Fassetta (6)                     Martin Ravina (5)
David Samaniego (0)                    Graham Bray (4)

Sunday afternoon was the perfect San Diego summer day with 75 degree weather and slight ocean breeze. Hanalei Bay and Starmeadow/Monteverde took the field, as Owner of Porsche of San Diego, Joe Allis threw in the ceremonial first ball.

Graham Bray started the first chukker by scoring the first point on the afternoon for Starmeadow/Monteverde. David Samaniego also took a great shot and scored one for Hanalei in the first chukker. Teammate, Mariano Fassetta also scored two beautiful shots. Martin Ravina scored 2 (one penalty) and Bray scored another for Starmeadow/Monteverde, bringing the score to 4 to 3.

Things heated up for Starmeadow/Monteverde in the second chukker, as Martin Ravina scored an additional 3 goals for his team. Krista Bonaguidi, first lady and owner of Hanalei Bay took a penalty shot for the team and scored!

In the third chukker, goals went back and forth, 3 for Hanalei Bay, 2 for Starmeadow/Monteverde, bringing the score to 9 to 7, Starmeadow/Monteverde in the lead.

As if the tension wasn’t enough, during the first minute of fourth chukker, Martin Ravina was given a red flag and pulled out of the game for the remainder of the chukker. Colton Bancroft scored one, but opposing team, Hanalei Bay used this time to catch up and Mariano Fassetta scored two for his team.

Hanalei Bay should have been able to dominate the scoreboard, but with fouls called, and time running out in the chukker, Starmeadow was able to hold on to the narrow margin, going into the 5th chukker with a full squad of players. The time on the bench gave Ravina that extra push needed to make the game competitive going into the remaining chukkers.

In the 5th chukker, Mariano Fassetta scored one for Hanalei and Martin Ravina scored one for Starmeadow/Monteverde. The finals of the USPA Spreckels Cup couldn’t have been more exciting and all the guests were on the edge of their seats, some standing in the VIP tent, tense with anticipation.

In the 6th chukker, Martin Ravina scored another for his team, bringing them ahead by one point. With 30 seconds left in the match, Mariano Fassetta put one through, tying the game and taking it into over time.

The 7th chukker was a tough one. Hanalei Bay’s Ashton Wolf had to call a time out due to lack of feeling in his hand and severe cramping. At this point in the game, the horses were exhausted, the players just as tired. At the beginning of the match, the players came on to the field, ready to fight for the win and prepared to expend every ounce of energy. That energy was running out. The play resumed and each team was able to defend their goals. With less than a minute left in the 7th chukker, Colton Bancroft made a beautiful break away and, unfortunately, overshot a cut shot that would have been the most glorious win for Starmeadow/Monteverde. The 7th chukker ended, the match still tied.

In the beginning of the 8th chukker, Colton made a second break away and all eyes were on him. The ball went over the line and out of play. Shortly after, eyes fell on his teammate, Graham Bray, who was on the ground. Not many saw it happen, but Bray’s horse clipped the back of Ashton Wolf‘s horse and fell, exhausted, throwing Graham Bray to the ground, knocking the wind out of him. Graham is one of the toughest players in San Diego, and when he’s on the ground for more than a few seconds, it’s serious. Bray stayed on the ground for a few minutes, barely moving his legs. After consultation from the EMT and fellow players, Graham Bray slowly rose, walked around, and mounted a fresh horse. The play went back and forth for a minute and the ball was left in a cluster right near the Starmeadow/Monteverde goal mouth. Mariano Fassetta’s horse started dancing around and they should have gotten out of there immediately. A foul was called on Hanalei Bay’s David Samaniego and Martin Ravina took an undefended penalty shot, winning the USPA Spreckels Cup Finals for Starmeadow/Monteverde. Both teams played an unbelievable game and made Spreckels Cup history as one of the most competitive games of all.

2013-spreckels-cup-winners
Winners of the USPA Spreckels Cup Tournament: Starmeadow/Monteverde

Member, Joe Cuillo and his daughter.

Gatsby-inspired guests stomp divots during the Korbel California Champagne Divot Stomp!

The Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach presented the After Party and guests rocked out to Crush Effect DJ and live trombone and drums.

Player, Mercedes Mafara and her friends celebrate the end of the season. Mercedes won Most Improved Player, and her group won Gastby Best Dressed!

Thank you to our sponsors, players, members, fans, and staff for an amazing Closing Day and 2013 Summer Polo Season! We’ll see you in June 2014.

USPA Rossmore Cup & Salute to Military

December 13, 2014September 11, 2013 by

On Sunday, September 8, we kicked of the USPA Rossmore Cup and honored our military, veterans, and first responders with a special ceremony. We warmly welcomed all military families, veteran support groups and charities who work hard to support our veterans in the community. Among them were Horses Joining Forces, a therapeutic riding program for veterans with PTSD. President of Horses Joining Forces, Former Major Glenn Cunningham, described the program and it’s benefits, giving the audience great insight what horses can do for our mind, body and heart.

Tens of thousands of our young combat veterans are unemployed, underemployed, homeless, in support programs, and or despondent due on no small part to the cause and effects of PTSD and combat trauma. Vets 360 invites recently separated combat veterans and their families into an on-going program of engagement, education, employment, and healing. Their goal is to help them understand that asking for support is a sign of strength… NOT an inability to cope. We were thrilled to have Vets 360 involved with our annual Salute to Military event.

The day kicked off with a match between Twin Palms/San Fernando and Star Meadow/Monteverde. Diego Velarde started off hot, leading Twin Palms/San Fernando with 3 goals in the first chukker and2 more in the second. Gaston VonWernich also put a couple through in the first and fourth chukkers. Star Meadow/Monteverde started slowly, building momentum in the third chukker. At half time, the score was 5 to 4, Twin Palms/San Fernando in the lead. In the fourth chukker, Graham Bray scored two and Martin Ravina one for Star Meadow/Monteverde. In the 5th chukker, they did the same: Bray with two, Ravina with one. Twin Palms/San Fernando fell back in the second half to play defense. They weren’t able to score on the opposing team in the 5th and 6th chukkers. Star Meadow/Monteverde came out victorious, 11 to 6.

During intermission the Poway Valley Vaulters, consisting of 6 girls, 2 trainers and a 13-year old Percheron/Welsh pony, showed us their talents. Equestrian Vaulting is a unique International sport that combines elements of gymnastics and dance on the back of a moving horse. And is a wonderful and fun way to develop coordination, balance, strength, flexibility, teamwork, harmony and creativity.

Vaulters of all ages and abilities showcase their talents in compulsory movements and choreographed freestyle routines set to music, with up to 3 vaulters on the horse at a time. Vaulting’s history is said to have begun thousands of years ago in ancient Minoa as ‘bull vaulting’. In fact, every horse culture around the world practices a variation of this sport. The sport’s most modern ancestor was as a cavalry training tool for horse-mounted soldiers, and it was also a recognized Olympic sport in the early 20th century. It is one of the FEI’s 8 recognized sports, and is a regular feature of the World Equestrian Games.

Our Salute to Military Ceremony was led by emcee and polo announcer Steve Lewandowski. Steve welcomed Glenn Cunningham, president of Horses Joining Forces on to the field to speak about the therapeutic riding program and services for veterans with PTSD. A representative from Congressman Duncan Hunter’s office presented certificates to many groups and people who made the event possible, and also gave a special flag to Steve Lewandowski for his exceptional effort during the planning of this event, and also to the San Diego Polo Club for hosting the event. These special flags were once flown above the capital and considered a honorable gift. Veterans and active military were invited on to the field for the recognition ceremony.

Karen McBride sang the national anthem in front of a huge American flag and the teams paraded on to the field for the featured match.

Team Hanalei Bay and Team Adeptus battled it out on field one in front of the crowd. Ashton Wolf, who fell and had to get face stitches on Friday afternoon, scored the first goal of the match for Hanalei Bay, followed by teammates Mariano Fassetta and David Samaniego. Jesse Bray and Dan Juarez of Adeptus scored one each in the second chukker and an additional 3 in the third chukker. By half time, the game was tied up 5 to 5.

Guests enjoyed a taste of Korbel California Champagne during the half time classic Pretty Woman Divot Stomp.

Krista Bonaguidi and Ashton Wolf scored for Hanalei Bay in the 4th chukker, and Jim Wright was able to score one for Adeptus. Jesse Bray scored 2 in the 5th chukker and teammate, Dan Juarez scored another for Adeptus. Mariano Fassetta was able to get through Adeptus‘ defense to score two for Hanalei Bay in the 5th and 6th chukker, but it was Dan Juarez’s last goal that lead Adeptus to victory.

Trophies were presented by the nieces of founding member and owner of Daou Vineyards, Georges Daou.

Labor Day Tournament & White Party

December 13, 2014September 6, 2013 by

Things have been heating up in San Diego and we aren’t talking about just the weather. As the San Diego Polo Summer Season continues through August and September, the polo talent rises. The horses are faster, the players work harder, and the crowds grow larger.

This holiday weekend’s Labor Day Tournament started off with an 8-goal tournament match between Twin Palms/San Fernando vs. StarMeadow/Monteverde. Things started off at an even pace in the first chukker, with Diego Velarde and Gaston VonWernich scoring for Twin Palms/San Fernando and Ellen Greenhill and Colton Bancroft scoring for StarMeadow/Monteverde. Roberto Estudillo scored 3 goals for his team, Twin Palms/San Fernando and teammate, Diego Velarde, had a high of 5 goals. Although StarMeadow/Monteverde played their hearts out, they just couldn’t catch up. Twin Palms/San Fernando beat StarMeadow/Monteverde 10 to 7.

During intermission, the Victorian Roses Riding Society performed. The Victorian Roses are a re-enactment group from Southern California who enjoy representing history and doing events that raise money for charity. The group symbolizes the romance of the 1880’s, or the Victorian Era, in the colorful costumes they wear and each member has a “rose” moniker representing who she is in the re-enactment society. Truly a sisterhood of dedicated women, these ladies ride in numerous parades and rodeo ceremonies and also participate in skit competitions, old-west shows, costume contests and other events.

The feature match was the finals of the Labor Day tournament with Hanalei Bay vs. Adeptus. Jesse Bray, who was bumped from a 2-goal handicap to a 4-goal handicap last year, started things off quickly and scored a goal for Adeptus within the first 30 seconds of the match. Ashton Wolf, another favorite San Diego Polo player, scored 2 for Hanalei Bay in the first chukker. Jesse Bray wouldn’t let that slide, so he scored two additional points for Adeptus in the second chukker. By the third chukker, the score was tied up 3 to 3.

Guests enjoyed stomping divots with their Korbel California Champagne. During the divot stomp, guests dressed in white spread out across the green grass during the perfect summer day.

During the half time, Hanalei Bay recharged and focused on the match. In the fourth chukker, they came out blazing. Mariano Fassetta score 3 goals and Ashton Wolf scored 1 for Hanalei Bay. Adeptus’ Daniel Juarez only could get one goal past the opposing team. In the fifth chukker, Hanalei Bay kept up with an additional 3 goals by Ashton Wolf, bringing the score up to 11. Daniel Juarez scored again in the 5th and 6th chukkers, along with Jesse Bray, but they just couldn’t catch up to Hanalei Bay, but they sure did put up a fight! Hanalei Bay beat Adeptus 12 to 9.

If you’re looking for some more action, join us this Sunday for the USPA Rossmore Cup and our annual Salute to Military, as we honor active military, veterans, and first responders.

American Heart Association Painted the SD Polo Club RED for the Inaugural Go Red Campaign

December 13, 2014August 28, 2013 by

Sunday’s finals of the Pacific Coast Polo Tournament also celebrated the inaugural American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women Campaign. Emceed by ABC’s Bachelorette runner up, Kiptyn Locke, the American Heart Association had their first ever San Diego STRUT to promote heart health in women, along with a silent and live auction. The Polo Club was decked out in red and all guests sported red flair in support of the organization. According to the CDC, heart disease is the number one killer in women, which is more than all types of cancer combined!

Porsche of San Diego had their gorgeous automobiles on display, including the all new 2014 Porsche Cayman.

The first match was a consolation game played between Twin Palms/San Fernando and Adeptus. Colleen Wilson, owner of Adeptus had a spectacular afternoon, scoring 5 goals for her team. Roberto Estudillo of Twin Palms/San Fernando also had a fantastic game, scoring 3 for his team. Twin Palms/San Fernando was slow to start, but caught up by half-time, making the score 5 to 5. Adeptus shined in the 5th chukker, bringing their team up 3 more point and winning the match 8 to 7.

During intermission, the local community participated in the Go Red STRUT, a community-based, one-of-a kind fashion show. Led by the San Diego Polo School students and Uakea Huddleston, the STRUT included two heart disease victims, one being a 4 year old boy. Celebrity judges AJ Machado, Chris Cantore, Natasha Stenbock, Lisa Murphy, Mia Stefanko and Kiptyn Locke, judged the “strutters” and gave out prizes to various winners.

Just after the American Heart Association’s Go Red STRUT, our announcer and auctioneer, Steven Lewandowski raffled off items for charity!

The national anthem was sung by two American Heart Association volunteers, one of which is a heart disease survivor.

The feature match and finals of the Pacific Coast Polo Tournament consisted of Hanalei Bay (Krista Bonaguidi -1, Ashton Wolf 3, Mariano Fassetta 6, David Samaniego 0) and Starmeadow/Monteverde (Ellen Greenhill -1, Colton Bancroft 0, Martin Ravina 5, Graham Bray 4). Hanalei Bay kicked off things in the first chukker with 3 goals but letting Starmeadow/Monteverde sneak up in the 3^rd chukker. Krista Bonaguidi scored 3 in the feature match, making her one of the high scorers on her team. The game was all tied up in the 4^th chukker, 7 to 7, but Martin Ravina scored 4 goals in the final chukkers to lead his team to victory. Starmeadow/Monteverde beat Hanaeli Bay 10 to 8.

Guests enjoyed the Korbel California Champagne Divot Stomp during half time and the Paul Cannon Band after the matches.

When guests sampled Black Stallion Winery‘s Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, they received a fun Black Stallion branded Go Vino glass! Black Stallion’s chardonnay is one of our biggest sellers at Sunday Polo!

Thank you to Ranch & Coast for being our media sponsor and Kiptyn Locke for emcee-ing the event!

Aloha Sunday Kicks-off Second Half of the Season!

December 13, 2014August 22, 2013 by

We kicked off the second half of our season with Aloha Sunday in partnership with ilovemusubi.com. Joining us to help celebrate the Hawaiian theme was Maui’s finest polo player Kimo Huddleston along with his wife and daughters. His youngest daughter, Uakea, or known to most of us as Buddha stole the hearts of the audience as the 4 year old rode her new pony named Cappy around the polo field and greeting fans between matches.

Our intermission performances included Kimo Huddleston’s wife Stephanie and his daughters Illihia, Hi’ilawe dancing native Hawaiian hulas. They danced several dances together and ending with Stephanie doing a beautiful solo.

Our 3PM match featured Star Meadow/Monteverde versus Hanalei Bay. It was an evenly matched game with both teams rated 8 goals.

The National Anthem was sung by Lea Love of Hawaiian/ Samoan decent born and raised in San Diego. She has been singing and dancing all of her life and recently traveled to Tahiti with her Polynesian dance group.

The first ball was thrown in by Nino “Neens” Camilo, the founder of the I Love Poke Hawaiian Food Festival.

The first score of the game came from sponsor Krista Bonaguidi and answered quickly with a goal by Martin Ravina. In the second David Samaniego scored his first goal of the match for Hanalei Bay bringing the score to 2-1 in favor of Hanalei Bay. The next two goals were scored by Graham Bray and Martin Ravina with Hanalei Bay answering with a goal from Ashton Wolf tying the score for 3-3 at the end of the second chukker. Play started in the third chukkar with Martin Ravina scoring the first goal for Star Meadow/Monteverde and Ashton Wolf came up with the tying goal for a 4-4 score ending the play before half time.

Our champagne divot stomp was sponsored by Korbel California Champagne, with an island twist! Guests enjoyed pineapple mimosas as they stopped divots.

The second half started with Hanalei Bay’s Mariano Fassetta scoring his first goal of the match. The teams were so evenly matched and each defended their goals keeping scoring at a minimum. Mariano Fassetta scored again bringing the score to 6-4 and Star Meadow/Monteverde answered with a goal from Graham Bray ending the fourth chukker 6-5 with Hanalei Bay in the lead. Star Meadow/Monteverde was on fire in the fifth scoring 3 goals to Hanalei Bay scoring only one goal bringing the score to 8-7 Star Meadow/Monteverde.

The sixth had both teams running and Hanalei Bay scored two goals to Star Meadow/Monteverde scoring only one bringing the end of the sixth to a tie game creating overtime. Both teams went off to get horses ready for a seventh chukker. The winning goal was scored by Martin Ravina for a very exciting end to a great match.

The Seventh Chukker After Party featured Kieljhon Dela Pena from Waimea, on the Big Island of Hawai’i. He has been influenced from a wide variety of genres from Traditional Hawaiian and Folk to Pop, Hip-Hop, R&B and of course Reggae.

Thanks to Hula Girls Shave Ice and Jaguar San Diego for being a part of Aloha Sunday. Mahalo!

Photos courtesy of John O’Mara and RichardNesdale.com

San Fernando wins Fernando Gutierrez Memorial Tournament!

December 13, 2014July 30, 2013 by

Fernando Gutierrez once played polo on the lush fields at the San Diego Polo Club with his brother-in-law, Roberto Estudillo. After his passing, the Gutierrez and Estudillo families created a memorial tournament in his honor. Roberto Estudillo has since named his team San Fernando, meaning “Saint Fernando.” Fernando’s wife, and sister to Roberto, Monique Estudillo and son, Fernando (Fernandito) Gutierrez support this wonderful event annually.

The entire Estudillo Family was present, including their 101 year old Grandmother. We are honored to welcome the family and friends of the Gutierrez & Estudillo families each year.

Senora Estudillo had the honor of throwing in the first ball to begin the final match of the Fernando Gutierrez Memorial Cup.

Things started off hot in the first chukker with Nick Mathers scoring 2 and Mariano Fassetta scoring 1 for Hanalei Bay/Sycamore. Diego Velarde of Twin Palms/San Fernando scored 1. By half time, the score was even 5 to 5. Chris Maloney played a great game, scoring two on the afternoon for Twin Palms/San Fernando.

After half time, things really started heating up with back and forth goals throughout the last chukkers. The 6th chukker proved to be an exciting one with Diego Velarde and Gaston VonWernich scoring 3 for Twin Palms/San Fernando and Ashton Wolf, Mariano Fassetta, and Krista Bonaguidi scoring 3 for Hanalei Bay/Sycamore. The crowd was loving the cat and mouse game, each team chasing each other down the field. The game went into over time.

In overtime, Twin Palms/San Fernando’s number 2 position, Diego Velarde took the ball to the goal and scored the winning team for Twin Palms/San Fernando!

Chris Maloney’s horse in the 4th chukker won Best Playing Pony.

During intermission earlier in the day, John Brokenshire of the Free Wheelchair Project introduced this fantastic charity. The San Diego Polo Club was honored to welcome the Free Wheelchair Mission to our Sunday polo event. After learning about the Free Wheelchair Mission and the inexpensive cost to literally lift spirits and lives, we knew we had to promote this charity in front of a large group of people.

Having Vietnamese wheelchair recipient, Lihn Nguyen in attendance was truly special for our audience and tugged on the heartstrings of many. When you see the enthusiasm and passion behind the charity’s volunteers and staff, you know their mission is true and important. We are thrilled the San Diego Polo Club helped save the lives of over 100 disadvantaged individuals and families across the globe. There are some things you just know to be true in your heart, and this charity is one of them.

Through live and silent auction, we are able to donate 115 wheelchairs to those in need!

In addition to this absolutely fantastic day, Land Rover of San Diego display their luxury vehicles throughout the event. Visit them and say hi to owner, Jason Puga for us!

We also had a HUGE crowd of Ivy League Alumni in attendance, especially from Harvard and MIT. If you’d like to host an alumni mixer or event at SDPC, comment and let us know!

Thank you for a wonderful start to our season! We’ll return on August 18 with Aloha Sunday, a fun, island-inspired family event. If you can believe it, the best has yet to come!