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

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)

3rd Annual Woodford Reserve Polo Classic

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)

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