Recap of USPA Spreckels Cup Finals & Closing Day of Polo presented by Woodford Reserve

The San Diego Polo Club (SDPC) celebrated the end of their 28^th season in Rancho Santa Fe with the United States Polo Association (USPA) Spreckels Cup & Closing Day presented by Woodford Reserve. Heels2Heal was the exclusive charity partner with specific ticket and auction proceeds benefiting San Diego Youth Services.

Gates opened at 12:30pm and guests were lined up as early as 9:30am itching to get a good spot to watch the final match at 2pm. Players and VIPs mingled in the Woodford Reserve Lounge and sipped on bourbon infused specialty cocktails as they took awe of the 105 year old Spreckels trophy that was on display with hundreds of beautiful garden and piano roses overflowing the cup.

The VIP tent was filled with 500 guests, including players, family, friends, sponsors, and of course, the Heels2Heal guests right in the front row. Over 1,300 guests piled into the venue, dressed to the nines in red accents, hats and chic polo outfits.

The day started out with a classic demonstration of rider and foxhounds, presented by the Santa Fe Hunt. Established in 1969, the Santa Fe Hunt/West Hills Hounds is a Masters of Fox Hounds Association recognized Hunt located in Temecula, 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. The San Diego Polo Club is honored to welcome back Terry Paine and the Santa Fe Hunt every year.

Next up was the highly anticipated fashion show presented by Heels2Heal chair and polo player, Sonya Berg the Zen Fashionista.

Sonya is a TV Personality, Fashion & Lifestyle Blogger, Fashion Show Designer & Producer, and philanthropist. Her “Sexy Socialite News Girls Pre-Fall Fashion Show” featured the San Diego News Girls, including Brandi Williams, Kimi Evans, Natasha Sweattle, Sabrina Fein, Tabitha Lipkin, and Staci Ortiz-Davis. Over 20 female models and 10 male models featured fall fashions from Matti D, Nicole Miller, Mister B’s, Jill Courtemanche Millinery, TRE, and Van de Vort.

After the fashion show, guests were encouraged to grab a drink at the bar or get a bite to eat and settle in for the final match of the season, the USPA Spreckels Cup Finals.

Five teams had been competing for the chance to play in the 105 year old tournament, The USPA sanctioned Spreckels Cup. On September 28th, 2014 the top two teams fought it out for the title of Spreckels Champions. After weeks of
competing for a spot in the final game, Starmeadow/Roseville Motor Car and Twin Palms took the field for the final tournament of 2014.

Anthony Ballard did the honors of singing the national anthem during our Opening Ceremonies. With over 25 years’ experience, Anthony’s diverse background spans opera, musical theatre, non-musicals, tap, jazz and ballet. Anthony is an active member of the San Diego Opera’s Core Chorus and has appeared in over 50 San Diego arts productions since moving to the area in 1993.

After the anthem, Suzanne Brown from Woodford Reserve did the honors of throwing in the ceremonial first ball and starting off the first chukker!

The first goal of chukker one was scored by Graham “the big guns” Bray for Starmeadow. Twin Palms’ Gaston Von Wernich was right behind him, scoring for his team. Playing for the trophy, Von Wernich scored the next three goals in chukker two.

Ashton Wolf made a comeback, scoring two goals for Starmeadow. Chukker three started with a goal from Twin Palms’ Ryan Robertson. Colton Bancroft fired back, scoring one for Starmeadow. Not one to back down easily, Robertson scored the remaining goal of chukker three, lengthening his team’s lead. At halftime, the scores were Starmeadow 4 / Twin Palms 6.

During the traditional “Pretty Woman Divot Stomp,” guests enjoyed a sample of Korbel California Champagne as they mingled with friends and replaced the divots that were kicked up by the horses during the first half of the game.

Plowing ahead in chukker four, Robertson again scored. Passing the reins to teammate Von Wernich, Twin Palms scored their 8th goal of the game; Von Wernich’s 5th.

Like chukker four, chukker five belonged to Twin Palms. Alvaro Tadeo scored first for his team. Robertson picked up the second goal. Going into the last chukker, the score was Starmeadow 4 / Twin Palms 10.

In chukker six, Starmeadow fought back hard. Bancroft scored first, followed by two goals from Ashton Wolf. Following suit, Graham Bray scored narrowing the lead Twin Palms had on his team.

The final goal was scored by Tadeo of Twin Palms. Adding in team handicaps, Starmeadow ended with nine goals. Though Starmeadow fought hard, Twin Palms was on fire. They came to win and with eleven goals, they did just that.

Watch post game interviews with Colton Bancroft and Alvaro Tadeo by Mikki & Shay.

Both teams joined together on the trophy deck for the Trophy & Awards Presentation. First off was the most improved player award, which was awared to Virgil Kyle by previous president and founding member, Ron Bonaguidi. Kyle has excelled in his skill level in 2014.

Second was the sportsmanship award, which went to one of our newest members, who has displayed courtesy and sportsmanship to his fellow players. Eric Hammon was the recipient of this great award.

Our founding father, Willis Allen was very instrumental in encouraging young players to get involved in the sport of polo. The San Diego Polo Club created his namesake award to honor Willis and congratulate the best all-around young player under 30 based on horsemanship, sportsmanship and playing ability. Judy Collins, daughter of Willis Allen, presented this award to 17-year old Colton Bancroft.

Out of the 48+ horses played in Sunday’s polo match, the best playing pony is just that– the best pony out there. Gail Greggson of the California Thoroughbred Breeder’s Foundation presented the trophy to Graham Bray for his horse P1. This horse has won 4 best playing pony awards in the last two years!

Torry Spreckels is the great granddaughter of John D. Spreckels. She and her daughter Jessica and granddaughter Molly presented the second place team with the Spreckels trophies. Both Molly and Jessica play polo today, carrying on the Spreckels family tradition. Christine Wuthrich, the great great grand daughter of John D. Spreckels also helped present the trophies.

All of the players were then welcomed onto the stage and everyone was gifted with a nice bottle of Woodford Reserve, a small-batch straight bourbon distilled in central Kentucky. The distillery itself is a national historical monument!

Jose Luis & Lovie Rocha, owners of  JL Rocha, have been designing and manufacturing handmade leather shoes & jackets for over 3 generations in Mexico and now they are in the United States. Lovie & Jose Luis presented each of the winning players with a fine lambskin jacket from their collection completely made by hand.

Scott Walker, USPA Lieutenant Governor for Southern California, presented the winning teams with their trophies as well as awarded Most Valuable Player of the game to Gaston von Wernich!

Guests stayed until dark, dancing and partying with polo players and members. DJ Beatnick kept the energy up and rocked the beats for one of the best after parties in history!

Photos by Jim Bremner & Topher Riley. To see more, visit us on Facebook.com

The Secret is Out! Our San Diego Surprise Celebrity Models are Announced!

Zen Fashionista Sonya Berg’s Closing Day of Polo Fashion Show celebrity models are being announced this week! Today, we are announcing 4 lovely models:

Kimi Evans, San Diego 6 News, the CW- Morning Meteorologist Traffic Reporter

Natasha Sweatte, San Diego 6 News, the CW- Reporter

Sabrina Fein, San Diego 6 News, the CW -Evening Meterologist

Brandi Williams, KUSI News, Good Morning San Diego- Anchor

JUST ANNOUNCED:

Staci Ortiz-Davis, fill-in anchor for KUSI’s “Good Morning San Diego” & Mrs. California 2014

Tabitha Lipkin, San Diego 6 News- the CW, Reporter

Check back for more fun announcements.

To attend the fashion show and Closing Day at the San Diego Polo Club, you need to purchase tickets online here.

Closing Day Style Guide presented by Zen Fashionista Sonya Berg

The most important day of the polo season is right around the corner on Sunday, September 28, 2014…  Closing Day & USPA Spreckles Cup Finals!

Polo is a fashionable affair and packed with family-friendly fun! Polo’s elite and luxury lifestyle makes it the perfect venue to see and be seen in your most elegant styles and chic fashions.

Right about now your probably thinking decisions…decisions…. what to wear for Closing Day of Polo? Sonya Berg, also known as the Zen Fashionista, has prepared the Ultimate Style Guide for how to dress for Closing Day.

Zen Fashionista’s 8 Style Tips for Closing Day of Polo:

           

 Wear Something In Any Shade Of Red

Red is the color of the day on Closing Day and will match the beautiful scarlet red roses that fill the Spreckles Cup trophy and coats of the lead fox huntsman. Think true red, raspberry, ruby, burgundy, brick red, crimson, cherry, candy apple red and any shade in between.

ACCESSORIZE: Feel free to get creative and playful here. Can’t find the perfect red dress? Try a jacket, hat, ring, shoe, pocket square, sunglasses, clutch or any other accessory. You can even paint your nails red and wear a matching red lipstick. I love Dior Rouge 999 and Pandore 754 for a classic red lip and nail. Silver, black and white are other suggested colors to mix with your red on Closing Day of Polo.

 It could get chilly at dusk when your dancing the night away with the talented DJ Beatnick who will be spinning the beats. Don’t forget to bring a wrap like this versace scarf or any other lightweight cashmere wrap, sweater or elegant jacket to throw over your shoulders. The after party is a perfect ending to perfect day of action packed fun and thrilling polo adventure!  Enjoy a refreshing cocktail while dancing on the grass.  You’ll even have a chance to mix and mingle with the professional polo players and patrons to complete your Closing Day of Polo experience.

 Wear A Fabulous Hat Or a Fun Fascinator  

Closing Day, September 28^th is also Hat Day! If you’ve been searching for the perfect occasion to wear your favorite hat, this is it. Ladies can wear elegant wide brimmed hats embellished with feathers and organza silk to provide sun protection and make a unique fashion statement. Fascinators are whimsical, fun and easy to wear. Like this little black fascinator trimmed with ruby red feathers.

There’s still enough time for last minute shopping to find a beautiful hat or fascinator to wear to Closing Day. All of the hats and fascinators pictured are designed by the amazing Jill Courtemanche Millinery.

Gentlemen grab your fedoras for an added touch of class and style to your Closing Day Polo attire.

Wear Wedges or Flat Sandals  

Remember ladies, you’ll be sipping champagne and stomping divots at half time, so leave those stilettos at home! Not only are stilettos a fashion faux pas at polo, they can also make half time divot stomping very complicated. For comfort and style while enjoying a fun day on the grass try a red or metallic wedge or an elegant crystal embellished flat sandal instead.

Wear Simple Flowing And Elegant Sundresses and Skirts

A sundress that’s simple, feminine and elegant is perfect for viewing a polo match on a sunny afternoon. A body conscious knit dress that’s cool and breathable in crimson red is a perfect choice for the red theme on Closing Day.

Can’t find a red dress? Opt for a dress in neutral hues like cream, pearl, silver, black or white for a classic and timeless look. This elegant hand beaded shift dress in white is perfect for Closing Day when paired with a lipstick red Chanel clutch, hat and nails.

Scott Copeland Talent

Feeling feminine? This intricate lace shift dress does best paired with metallic wedges and accented with a bright red hat.

Men Wear Sport coats, Patterned Shirts and Bowties

A crisp collared shirt and slacks will work just fine for the men. If you want to dress to impress, try a sports coat in any shade of red like this crimson sports coat and matching tie.

You can also wear a classic black and white checked sports coat accented with a scarlet pocket square, shoes and belt. Slim fit suits, bowties and other preppy attire are always stylish for men to wear to Closing Day.

Tailgater Style Is More Casual And Relaxed

If you’ve decided to enjoy Closing Day of Polo tailgating from the back of your car and picnicking with family and friends, the attire is much more casual and relaxed here. Women often wear casual sundresses in light and breezy fabrics with straw hats for sun protection and simple leather sandals or flip-flops.

Want to stay with the red theme for Closing Day? Choose a red sundress or accent your attire with any red accessory. Casual khakis with a red t-shirt and cotton or linen shorts in any shade of red worn with boat shoes or flip-flops are a good option for men tailgaters. Jeans are also an option for casual tailgating.

Children Dress To Impress

Pull out those comfortable party dresses in shades of red, silver, black and/or white. Boys will look dapper in chinos or a red colored cotton slacks with a patterned crisp collared shirt with red accents or in any shade of red. Girls and boys should wear comfortable dressy casual shoes. Think pretty sandals, flats in red or neutral hues and boat shoes for boys.

Wear Big Sunglasses

What’s more glamorous than a pair of oversized sunglasses? Big sunglasses give your face a mysterious movie-star look while providing extra protection from the sun. For show-stopping style, choose an oversized crystal embellished sunglass in red. Men, smaller stylish glasses are on trend and dress up any outfit.

Most of all, have fun and get ready to watch the finals of the USPA Spreckels Cup!

Get your tickets to Closing Day & USPA Spreckels Cup

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ABOUT ZEN FASHIONISTA

Zen Fashionista-Sonya Berg-is the leading Fashion, Healthy Lifestyle and Beauty Blogger of ZenFashionista.com Her mission is to transform and empower peoples lives through daily tips on healthy living, fashion, beauty, dating, relationships, esteem building, goal setting, communication skills, raising children and the law of attraction.Zen Fashionista, Sonya Berg a fashion show producer and designer, branding partner and inspirational speaker. She brings together charity and fashion through event planning, promotion and branding partnerships. Sonya Berg, Zen Fashionista is also a philanthropist, a certified yoga instructor, a fung shui expert, reiki master and avid polo player.

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Womens Clothing: Matti D, Del Mar CA (exceptions: scarf by Versace, black satin dress by Maggi B)

Mens Clothing: Mister B’s, Del Mar CA

Hats and Fascinators:  Jill Courtemanche Millnery

Hair and Makeup Artist: Mua Rene Gonzales 

Photographer- Quentin Anderson 619-796-1010 (exception: last photo by Topher Riley)

WIN Access to Exclusive Woodford Reserve Lounge on 9/28

 

WIN Access to the exclusive Woodford Reserve Lounge at the USPA Spreckels Cup Finals & Closing Day on Sunday, September 28, 2014.

Tickets valued at $200 each. Includes admission, hosted cocktails and canapes.

>  >  >  Five Easy Ways to Enter  <  <  <

1. Follow us on Twitter & Tweet us using hashtag #sdpolo or #woodfordpolo
2. Follow us on Instagram & Like this post
3. Tag 3 of your friends on this Instagram post
4. Post a polo picture on Instagram and hashtag  #sdpolo or #woodfordpolo
5. Post a comment on our Facebook Closing Day Event Page

Double. Triple. Quadruple. Quintuple your chances by doing all of the above!
Winners announced weekly.

More info on Closing Day & USPA Spreckels Cup Finals, click here.

USPA Spreckels Cup Finals & Closing Day presented by Woodford Reserve – September 28

Closing Day at the San Diego Polo Club

USPA Spreckels Cup presented by Woodford Reserve to benefit Heels2Heal

Sunday, September 28, 2014

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The San Diego Polo Club (SDPC) celebrates the end of their 28^th season in Rancho Santa Fe with the United States Polo Association (USPA) Spreckels Cup & Closing Day presented by Woodford Reserve. Heels2Heal is the exclusive charity partner with specific ticket and auction proceeds benefiting the organization. The San Diego Polo Club is located at 14555 El Camino Real, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067. The event will take place from 12:30pm to 6:00pm on Sunday, September 28, 2014.

SCHEDULE:

Gates Open 12:30pm
Santa Fe Hunt 1:00pm
Fashion show by Sonya Berg Zen Fashionista 1:30pm
Feature Match & Finals of the USPA Spreckels Cup 2:00pm
Divot Stomp presented by Korbel California Champagne 2:45pm
Trophy Presentation 3:30pm
After Party featuring DJ Beatnick 4-6pm

FEATURED ENTERTAINMENT:

Local and international polo players will compete for the United States Polo Association sanctioned 105-year-old Spreckels Cup trophy in front of an estimated 1,500 spectators. The USPA Spreckels Cup is a historical tournament named after John D. Spreckels, an entrepreneur who founded a transportation and real estate empire, including the San Diego Railway, Hotel del Coronado and San Diego’s first polo club in Coronado. The first Spreckels match was in 1909 and winners were presented with a dramatic silver trophy over two feet high.

Engraved on the trophy is the inscription, “Polo Challenge Trophy, presented by John D. Spreckels.”  The trophy was designed to be engraved with the names of the winners each year and was intended to be held by the winning team for one year. It is the most important polo tournament in southern California and provides a tangible link across the years between the players of today, John D. Spreckels, and the band of polo players that had such an influence on the sport and upon the San Diego Polo Club. The actual tournament is played for three weeks and the final championship match will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2014 at 2:00pm in front of the Sunday Polo crowd.

Prior to the match at 1:00pm, guests will enjoy a classic demonstration of rider and foxhounds, presented by the Santa Fe Hunt. Established in 1969, the Santa Fe Hunt/West Hills Hounds is a Masters of Fox Hounds Association recognized Hunt located in Temecula, 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.

Heels2Heal is a non-profit that creates positive change within the San Diego community by supporting non-profit organizations that promote healing and education for underprivileged, critically-ill, abused women and children. Founder of Heels2Heal, Kat Cowling states, “Heels2Heal is honored to be a part of this prestigious polo match benefiting Heels2Heal and San Diego Youth Services, a non profit organization that provides financial and emotional assistance to improve the lives of homeless, abused and at-risk youth. Together we will make a difference in their lives.”  Guests can support Heels2Heal by purchasing Gold VIP tickets or participating in the silent auction.

Heels2Heal Chair and polo player, Sonya Berg, Zen Fashionista, will produce a one-of-a-kind Fashion Show with surprise celebrity models at 1:30pm featuring local boutiques.

After the match, join polo players, members and guests for the anticipated 7^th Chukker After Party featuring DJ Beatnick from 3:30-6pm.

SUGGESTED ATTIRE:

Celebrate “Hat Day” on September 28 and sport your favorite hat or fascinator to the polo match. Red is also the color of the day, which will match the gorgeous red roses that fill the Spreckels trophy and the coats of the lead huntsman of the Santa Fe Hunt. Women are encouraged to wear simple and stylish sundresses with a wedge or flat shoe. Men often wear sport coats, interesting patterned shirts and bow ties, although it is not necessary. A collared shirt and slacks will do just fine. Take advantage of the occasion and the closing ceremonies and dress to impress.

TICKET INFORMATION (PURCHASE TICKETS HERE):

SDPC has multiple ticket options, ranging from VIP to picnicking with your family. The VIP tent ($350-450/table of 10) is a center field grandstand that seats 500 on Closing Day. It’s an elevated, shaded area with wait staff for both food and beverage service. Garden Seating ($25) is a field-side reserved area with tables and umbrellas for shade. General admission ($12) is first come, first served with umbrella tables, cocktail tables and picnic tables. If you are interested in tailgating ($10pp or $75 for a reserved space and admission for 4) on the east side of the field, we encourage you to pack a picnic and enjoy the game from the tailgate of your car. Parking is $10 per car.

BUY TICKETS FOR CLOSING DAY

FOOD & BEVERAGE:
We have two full bars serving craft cocktails on draft, an assortment of spirits, local craft beer, hand selected wines, and of course, champagne! Woodford Reserve will be mixing specialty cocktails for guests in the Woodford Reserve Lounge. The main bar is accessible to all guests, while the VIP tent has wait staff. Cash and credit accepted.

The Sunday Polo Kitchen is presented by The Wild Thyme Company, offering plates to share or more traditional sandwiches, salads and daily specials. Their food is both classic and trendsetting while maintaining the highest standards of culinary excellence with an emphasis on seasonal options. Cash and credit accepted.

More information available online at http://www.SanDiegoPolo.com

2013 USPA Spreckels Cup Winners

New Deal From San Diego Marriott Del Mar Celebrates Partnership With San Diego Polo Club

New Deal From San Diego Marriott Del Mar Celebrates Partnership With San Diego Polo Club

Del Mar hotel deal includes deluxe accommodations, two tickets to polo match, appetizer from Arterra restaurant

San Diego, CA – Polo fans will ride off into the breathtaking Southern California sunset with big grins on their faces and extra savings in their pocket thanks to a new partnership between the San Diego Marriott Del Mar and San Diego Polo Club.

Visitors in San Diego who stay at the Del Mar hotel will reap the benefits of a deal that makes the Marriott an official hotel partner of the 2014 polo season. The San Diego Polo Match Package combines the best of SoCal with the grandeur, excitement and champagne of a polo match. The package includes deluxe Sunday night accommodations from $229 per night as well as two tickets to a match, discounted self-parking, complimentary transportation to the club and a free appetizer from the Del Mar hotel’s Arterra restaurant.

The San Diego Polo Club was founded in 1986 and features 60 acres of world-class polo and horse facilities in nearby Rancho Santa Fe. The club boasts one of the longest playing seasons in the country thanks to an onsite exercise track, riding trails, clubhouse, bar, polo training school and outdoor lighted arena. Polo matches take place at 1 and 3 p.m. Sunday from June 1 through Sept. 28, 2014. The final day of the season hosts only one match at 2 p.m.

“We realize there are many different choices you can make in finding a luxury hotel in Del Mar. We embody the spirit of Del Mar in our exceptional service and our support of the San Diego Polo Club,” said Brian Findley, general manager of the Del Mar, CA, hotel.

After an afternoon at the polo grounds enjoying matches, stomping divots and sipping wine, guests can head back to the Del Mar luxury hotel to enjoy their free appetizer and grab a hearty dinner at Arterra. The award-winning Del Mar restaurant and outdoor lounge features Southern California cuisine that is field-to-fork fresh. Dinner options include everything from lobster mac and cheese and local scallops to pork tenderloins and grilled beef filets.

Well-appointed, tech-friendly rooms await the weary when the day is done. Visitors can sit back and relax on thick mattresses topped with down comforters, custom duvets, cotton-rich linens and plenty of fluffy pillows while enjoying their favorite movie or show on 32-inch flat-screen TVs. High-speed Internet access allows polo fans to stay connected to social media channels to post photos and videos from their exciting adventure. Coffeemakers provide the extra jolt of java necessary to get a running start on a Monday.

To take advantage of the special polo package, use promotional code SPE when booking online or by calling 1-8000-228-9290. The offer is good Sunday nights only through Sept. 28, 2014.

About the San Diego Marriott Del Mar

The San Diego Marriott Del Mar at 11966 El Camino Real in San Diego, CA, sits seaside about 20 minutes north of downtown San Diego and just south of Solana Beach with Del Mar Fairgrounds, Torrey Pines golf course and Del Mar Racetrack all nearby. The hotel features 281 rooms and three suites on 11 floors, three concierge levels and14 meeting rooms with 12,078 square feet of flexible event space. The award-winning Arterra restaurant, a state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor pool and whirlpool are among other amenities available. For information, visit www.marriott.com/SANDM or call 1-858-523-1700. Like the hotel on Facebook and add it to a circle on Google Plus.

 

SDPC Teams Up with Miracle Babies for UPSA’s National Youth Tournament Series & Sunday Polo

The San Diego Polo Club is excited to announce its recent partnership with Miracle Babies, a non-profit dedicated to providing education, support, and financial assistance to families with newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

On Sunday, August 31 from 12:30-7pm, guests are invited to a day of polo, including the USPA’s National Youth Tournament Series, the USPA Rossmore Cup Finals, dressage, charitable giving, music and fun at the San Diego Polo Club, located at 14555 El Camino Real, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067.

Originally known as The Polo Association, the United States Polo Association, or USPA, was created in 1890 to govern polo handicaps, rules, and tournaments in America and Canada. The U.S. Polo Association 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.

The National Youth Tournament Series began in 2013 and the main objective for the program since the beginning was to create more opportunities for youth to play against they peers. But so much more has come out of it. NYTS is a training module that prepares youth for formal tournament competition. It challenges players to get to know their team and identify their opponents strengths and weaknesses.

Kids from all over the United States compete locally at their home clubs to qualify for the National Tournament Series. The San Diego Polo Club is honored to host this national tournament and the championship games.

Qualifiers for National Youth Tournament Series Championships – Team San Diego: Colton, Zander, Austin and Molly.

Teams from all over the country will travel to San Diego to compete in the last few championship matches, beginning on Friday, August 29. The highly anticipated finals of the USPA’s National Youth Tournament Series will be held at 1:00pm in front of the Sunday Polo crowd.

After the NYTS Championship game, guests will enjoy “Dancing with the Equine Stars,” a pas de deux with two upper level Lusitano dressage horses by Donna Richardson.

Winners of 2013 USPA’s Rossmore Cup: Adeptus

At 3:00pm, we will host the finals to the USPA Rossmore Cup, one of two USPA sanctioned tournaments held at the San Diego Polo Club.

Miracle Babies invites attendees to celebrate polo and the fine work of the charity. Multiple ticket options are available from $12-125 per person. The Miracle Babies Pavilion event price includes delicious fare from Wild Thyme Catering and one free drink ticket after which there will be a no-host bar available for the afternoon (21+ ID required at check-in).

“We’re truly honored to be the beneficiary of this prestigious event and celebration,” said Sean Daneshmand, M.D., founder of Miracle Babies. “Many mothers of premature or critically ill newborns are financially unable to be at the hospital with their babies every day,” he said. “We founded Miracle Babies to provide support and financial assistance to parents who find themselves in such situations.”

Miracle Babies, founded by Dr. Sean Daneshmand and based in San Diego, is a non-profit organization structured to provide education and financial support to families with newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Its mission is to provide financial assistance and support to families in need with newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit. For additional information, please visit www.miraclebabies.org.

Suggested attire: White or light colors to celebrate Labor Day!

For more information and to purchase tickets for the USPA National Youth Tournament, USPA Rossmore Cup Finals & Miracle Babies Fundraiser, please click here.

Our Favorite Hats for Opening Day at the Del Mar Races!

With Opening Day at the Del Mar Racetrack just around the corner, there is still time to get fitted for a stunning hat. Jill Courtemanche Millnery will be at the San Diego Polo Club this Sunday, July 13 from 1-5pm displaying tons of her gorgeous hats and facinators. She even has hats and bowties for men! We love TRUNK SHOWS!

Whimsical and fun this wide brimmed picture hat in an open weave straw trimmed with feathers and butterflies is a perfect statement piece.

This soft blush hat is a perfect wide brim for more petite ladies. It is larger side to side than front to back so it does not overwhelm. Trimmed with silk organza, feathers and straw it is soft and feminine.

This is the little black dress of fascinators! It is on a headband so it is easy to wear and the feathers add the perfect amount of fun.

This platter style fascinator rides the line between hat and headband perfectly. With silk organza, ostrich plumes and silk flower petals it packs a big entrance into a small package.

This small asymmetric cloche is perfect for a longer face or petite frames. Trimmed with silk organza flowers it’s fun for the races or a day of polo.

This oversized down brim is a perfect race day hat. The shape channels Breakfast at Tiffany’s and the trim is modern and fun feathers and silk organza.

Come on by the San Diego Polo Club this Sunday, July 13 from 1-5pm to shop for your gorgeous new hat (or bowtie), watch two exciting polo matches and enjoy the day with Woodford Reserve!

Right now, if you purchase a VIP ticket to the Woodford Reserve Classic this Sunday, July 13, we’ll give you admission tickets to the Del Mar Races (valid any day including Opening Day)! Plus, the Woodford Reserve Classic is one of those really fun polo tournaments you don’t want to miss! Hope to see you there.

All hats by Jill Courtemanche Millnery
410 South Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach, CA 92075
+1 858 876 6353 or info@jillcourtemanche.com

Chambord Vodka Classic 2014 Recap

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.

 

 

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

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.