Polo . . . No Longer Just the “Sport of Kings”
Family Fun for Everyone
Story and Photos By Lois Spatz
If you’ve never gone to a polo game, do not feel alone. Many people in the Western Communities have lived here for several years and have never stepped foot on the polo grounds.
Photos from the IPC Press Conference (below)
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“It’s for the upper class only . . . I do not really understand what a polo game is . . . What do I wear . . . Or what do I do when I get there?” These are just a few of the questions asked around town. It’s been called “The Sport of Kings,” but after a delightful Sunday I found that it’s a fun, affordable event for the whole family too.
As the International Polo Club Palm Beach kicks off its ninth season this January, there is something for Around Wellington readers to consider. If you’ve never been, 2012 may be your time to go to a polo game.
“We’re gearing up for one of the most exciting seasons ever,” President of Club Operations John Wash said during the January 4th press conference held at the club’s pavilion. “This year we have a record-setting 17 teams set to play in the high-goal polo between the opening four tournaments which include the Herbie Pennell Cup, the Joe Barry Memorial Cup, the Ylvisaker Cup and the C.V. Whitney Cup.”
Every Sunday during polo season, the IPC field comes alive with activities for the whole family. Starting at 2:00 PM, brunch is served at the field side pavilion located on the East side of the grounds. Although it is a little pricey, it is a divine treat. Guests are greeted with Vueve Cliquot champagne and hors d’oeuvres and then treated to some of the most amazing food this writer has ever eaten, thanks to IPC Catering’s Aaron Menitoff.
2:00 PM is also the start time for the Wellington Zone. This area is beside the pavilion where children can pet farm animals and jump in bounce houses. There is also great seating in this area providing good viewing, especially if you want to relax and watch the game while the kids play. The Wellington Zone boasts reasonably priced food and drinks too. (Side note, this is a great spot for amateur photo enthusiasts to snap an up close shot of players and their ponies in action.) Spectators are also permitted to rent small tents along this area to host private viewing parties.
The official start time for each tournament is 3:00 PM. Although there are games all throughout the week, the club hosts its high goal tournaments each Sunday; this season’s calendar set from January 8 until April 22. (By the way, High goal relates to the players achievements and is really a way of ranking the top international players of the game.)
On any given Sunday you will find all walks of life from an Argentinian cowboy who sidelines as a Ralph Lauren model to the Real Housewives from Atlanta. The crowd is filled with everyone from local celebrities to accountants, soccer moms, doctors, dentists and lawyers, there is no discrimination.
Even the players are mostly down-to-earth family guys, just getting to do what they love for a living. One of the highest ranked players in the country, Julio Arellano, spoke to the crowd during the press conference to highlight his firsthand passion of the sport. “I grew up here in Wellington,” Arellano said, “I played in my first tournament here 30 years ago and I haven’t missed a season yet.” Arellano went on to share how every season he packs up his 20-plus ponies, three kids and his wife to play in various tournaments throughout the country from Aiken, SC to Wyoming. “For us it is a family venture, my wife and 14-year-old son play in tournaments as well. It is more than a sport, it is our life.”
Director of Polo Operations Jimmy Newman also highlighted an extra level of excitement for the upcoming season. “We are delighted to feature a schedule that includes the best players in the world, with several new teams participating this year.”
It’s these world class players, including a lot that live right here in Wellington, and polo’s non-stop pace that make it appealing to so many. The game is divided into six “chuckers” lasting around seven minutes each. And for even more of a thrill, sitting right on the field is an option for a small upgrade to general admission. These seats are the place to feel the breeze of ponies passing, huffing in a full on trot, carrying equestrian athletes swinging mallets with intense concentration.
Most of the crowd that sits close to the action dress comfortably but polo fashion can be anything from your best Sunday dress, your favorite Saturday afternoon gear to plain jeans and a top. Everything from Bass flats to Lucchese boots to Christian Louboutin heels to sneakers and sandals, it really is an even playing field, (pun intended).
And don’t be intimidated when it’s time to “stomp the divots.” Get up and go out to in the middle of the field and enjoy some free champagne or an ice cream bar. You never know who you’ll run into.
It’s hard to imagine this is all going on in our backyard. The polo fields are located just between Pierson and Lake Worth Road on 120th Avenue, just a little west of Pierson Park. With general Admission starting at $15 and parking at just $5, it’s an affordable family outing. To purchase tickets online and for more information on the club’s events visit Internationalpoloclub.com or call 561-282-5334.
Lois Spatz is an avid life enthusiast, professional photographer and content writer. Featured writer in local magazines and newspapers and published photographer. A self-proclaimed expert on life experiences passionate about living the best life. For family portraits, special occasions or events, contact Lois at: [email protected].