Polo Lifestyles - Haiti February 2018

POLO LIFESTYLES VOLUME II / ISSUE II / FEBRUARY 2018

MANIPUR INDIA

BEACH POLO WORLD CUP 2018

11th Manipur Internationals

DESIGN SPOTLIGHT LOUIS LEEMAN Farnis Bera Mudra BELQUIS

VOLUME II / ISSUE II / FEBRUARY 2018

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stregissanfrancisco.com

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VOLUME II / ISSUE I / JANUARY 2018

POLO LIFESTYLES Haiti T H E M AG A Z I N E

L’ÉQUIPE:

Claude-Alix Bertrand

President/Executive Editor

Josh Jakobitz

SVP Marketing/Editor

Lucy Crabtree Copy Editor

Oksana Toussaint-Vig

Senior Global Fashion Curator

Trystanne Cunningham

Senior Global Style Curator

Christelle P. Pierre

Style Contributor, Port-au-Prince

Mark Wine

Fitness Columnist

Joey Velez

Featured Columnist

Wendelle Theodore

Style & Culture Contributor, Paris Desk

Contributing Photographers

Irengbam Momocha Singh Ashley Canario Seth Browarnik/World Red Eye Daniel Oyvetsky Dylan Aebersold Rebecca Blue/Rebecca Blue Media Emily Amanecer/Amanecer Art Tibor Golob Polo Lifestyles is a publication of HT Polo Co.

280 Old County Road, Suite 152, Brisbane, CA 94005

All rights reserved.

For information or to advertise, Contact editor@htpolo.com Read online at www.pololifestyles.com On the cover: Nic Roldan in Miami Cover photo credit: Ashley Canario

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ARE YOU GOING?

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Indio, California Empire Polo Club Season runs January 1 to April 1 www.empirepoloevents.com Palm Beach, Florida International Polo Club C.V. Whitney Cup February 23 to March 5 114th US Open Polo Championships April ipc.coth.com Tandil, Argentina Goti Cup - February Wellington, Florida Grand Champion Polo Club Top Pony (12 goals) February to April John Joxley (16-20 goals) February to April www.gcpolo.com Dubai Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club Gold Cup Series March www.abhabtoorpoloresortandclub.com Barbados Apes Hill Polo Club Barbados Open April www.apeshillpolo.com Buenos Aires, Argentina Copa de la Republica March 20 to April 5

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CONTENTS Manipur India The home of polo welcomes teams with panache pg. 34

Spanish luxury handbag brand Farnis’ strong lines and colors, pg. 64 POLO LIFESTYLES EDITORS & CONTRIBUTORS

Ambassador Claude-Alix Bertrand

Publisher Polo Lifestyles

Christelle P. Pierre Style Contributor Port-au-Prince

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Josh Jakobitz

SVP Marketing and Editor Polo Lifestyles

Dylan Aebersold

Freelance Photographer

Trystanne Cunningham

Senior Global Style Curator Polo Lifestyles

Mark Wine

Fitness Columnist & CEO Functional Muscle Fitness

Lucy Crabtree Copy Editor Polo Lifestyles

Joey Velez

Mental Health Fitness Columnist

Oksana Vig

Sr Global Fashion Curator Polo LIfestyles

Wendelle Theodore

Style & Culture Contributor Paris Desk

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Oh, For Art’s Sake, pg 76

Head of security Adam Jarrell, pg 58

South American design influence, pg 88

The best place to sleep in Southeastern Haiti, pg 108

Miami Beach Polo World Cup, pg. 46

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COMMENTS TO THE EDITOR The January snow polo cover wowed our readers with the combined beauty of horses and snow. Coverage from Bendura Bank starts in our Scoreboards and Cocktails section.

“Wow!” “Thank you Polo Lifestyles” “Gorgeous” “Very cool!”

“Look at this... relevant to everything I love”

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR It’s been a tough month for the country we represent here at Polo Lifestyles – Haiti. Once again, in the news for all the wrong reasons. Each January 12 is always a sober reminder of the 2010 earthquake that shook the metropolitan area to its core, displacing over 1 million people from their homes and killing untold hundreds of thousands instantly. While we will never forget – Je me souviens, mwen p’ap bliye – where were we at 4:53pm on that day that changed the course of Haitian history, we look forward, intent on promoting Haiti in a powerful and positive light.

As I type this, late-night talk show host Conan O’Brien is dancing at my favorite restaurant in Port-au-Prince, Brasserie Quartier Latin. He’s in Haiti this week, taping his show there, showcasing local talent and personalities, artists and employers.

In this issue of Polo Lifestyles, we invite you to explore Kabik, Haiti, with us.

Our Port-au-Prince style contributor Christelle Pierre describes in vivid detail the luxurious surroundings of Chic Chateau, where travelers escape the noise of the city and commotion of life. Canadian hotelier Madame Janet pampers her guests with treatments, relaxation, the delicacies of southeastern Haiti, and much-appreciated rest. An escape to one of the many white sand, undeveloped beaches where local kids surf between sunrise and the school bells and friendly local cooks offer you freshly prepared lambi (conch) and grilled fish with ice cold Prestige beer, is the soup that sooths every aching soul in January and February.

Speaking of the beach, have you seen our cover? Beach Polo World Cup made its smashing return to Miami, under the leadership of the talented duo of Tito Gaudenzi and Melissa Ganzi. They pulled out all the stops to make an unforgettable four-day experience. Fusing polo with fashion and nightlife, this is Miami-Does-Polo. Photos from the event begin on page 18.

The cover story begins on page 48. With powerful presenting sponsors, we can only imagine what next year will have in store.

With 2018 polo season underway, our team hits the road in a few weeks with our newly expanded roster that includes two South Africans and a New Zealander. This will be our most action-packed season yet, and we hope to meet up with you on the tournament trail.

Best, Josh Jakobitz josh@htpolo.com

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Reposted FOR THE RECORD Curated Instagram posts from january

pferdepizza Just amazing show of agility and athleticism

moschino “We have sell the dream before we sell the clothes” @aubejolicoeur

guiacasarbem Is there anything more romantic in the world?

princeharry2018 A royal opportunity for a lucky admirer of the royal couple

teamcoco Late-night TV host Conan O’Brien takes his show to Haiti

polo_southafrica Dirk van Reenen for South Africa playing against England

oliviawilde Academy For Peace & Justice in #haiti after the 2010 earthquake

thestageuk Cirque du Soleil’s Ovo at the Royal Albert Hall in London

“Hate is too great a burden to bear.”

Martin Luther King, Jr.

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mlk

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Click and comment on our choices... tag @pololifestyles We will share noteworthy comments with you next month

kseet

Jeweled sinks and drain in ultra-luxurious bathrooms, what’s better?

An extraordinary display over Singapore to welcome the new year

cnnpolitics Oprah’s speech rocked the Golden Globes #ahamoment

haiti_polo_captain Remembering the eighth anniversary of the earthquake that shook Haiti

future__boyfriend More same-sex couples getting engaged as marriage laws change

rafaelnadalfan24 Nadal versus Burgos 6-1/6-1/6-1 playing the Australian Open

haitian_businesses Jan. 1 “soupe de giraumon” as prepared to celebrate Haitian freedom

strangerthings.argentina.fans Best Ensemble in a Drama Series goes to Stranger Things

wonderful_places Landwasser Viaduct - Switzerland; photo credit @sebastianmzh

divine_design_decor

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Scoreboards & Cocktails

TOURNAMENTS & ACTION IN NOVEMBER

Beach Polo World Cup W Hotel South Beach January 5-7

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Over 10,000 people attended the four-day Beach Polo World Cup, held last month on the sands of the W Hotel South Beach. The event was bigger and better than ever, with a brand-new layout, and some of the world’s best players competing in high-goal matches.

La Martina Polo team prevailed and took home the highest honors and World Cup trophy. This year’s presenting sponsors were W South Beach, David Yurman, La Martina Polo, Karma Automotive, Macallan, Chateau d’Esclan, Bal Harbour Village, Douglas Elliman South Florida, La Croix, People from Barbados, Bruno Magli, and Grand Champions Polo Club.

Organizers Tito Gaudenzi and Melissa Ganzi were extremely pleased with the response and turnout. “We couldn’t be more excited to see our vision come to fruition with the return of Beach Polo World Cup,” said Gaudenzi.

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Joe Barry

IPC Polo Cup Palm Beach, Florida Weekends in January

The Joe Barry Cup tournament was founded in 2005 in honor of Barry who passed away in 2002. The Joe Barry Cup Final was played January 21, after this publication went to press. page 20

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16th Bendura Bank Snow Polo Kitzbühel, Switzerland January 11-14

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Celebrities, polo fans and international polo professionals gathered in the Austrian Alps for six teams to battle for the championship in Bendura Bank for the 16th Snow Polo Cup. page 23

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Event organizer and Bendura Banks team player Tito Gaudenzi said, “Each year this tournament gets better and better, with both the caliber of the players an the ponies improving year after year. With the addition of the Bendura Bank team to this year’s competition, it (was) the best Snow Polo World Cup yet.”

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Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia January 7 Three polo games Adam Harvey live in concert Guy McLean horsemanship display

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The 2018 Magic Millions Carnival was a week-long celebration of all things equine, kicking off with the Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo on Sunday 7 January at Doug Jennings Park, Main Beach. Spectators enjoyed high-action polo and picturesque surrounds as some of the world’s finest polo players take to the field including world famous Polo Player, Nacho Figueras, Racing Expert Francesca Cumani, the world’s best Jockey Hugh Bowman and leading Australian Polo players. Held on Queensland’s stunning Gold Coast, the day included three thrilling games of polo, an exclusive live Adam Harvey concert, celebrities and royalty, Harrolds Fashions on the Field, DJs, and the Divot Stomp.

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H.H The President of the UAE Polo Cup Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Final: January 18 at Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club Abu Dhabi v Desert Palm 7-6

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Abu Dhabi Polo Club and Desert Palm Polo Club faced off in the final of the prestigious HH The President of the UAE Polo Cup after successful coming through the penalty shootout at the Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club. Teams Abu Dhabi, Desert Palm and Ghantoot ADS Securities all finished on four points from two wins each at the end of the three rounds of qualification matches on Tuesday evening, forcing the penalty shoot-ruling, whereby goal difference as discounted for the three teams.

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MANIPUR, INDIA

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11th International Polo World Cup

Take a long step back into ancient history heading due east.

Where current day India ends past Assam (renowned for Assam and Darjeeling tea), and Burma land of rubies and teak, now known as Mynmaar begins, lies the ancient kingdom of Manipur.

Abutting the Shan peoples and hills of Burma and possessing tremendous commonalities with them, Manipur converted to Hinduism in

the 1600’s by royal decree. Today while it is 44% christian in denomination, and 2% mohammedan, the remaining 52% of the population are of the hindu faith. In hindu mythology it was Indra god of the heavens who gifted the winged horse to man, by slashing its wings to remain below. An offshoot of this legend is that of the Manipuri diety Marjing, the horse god who in turn was the inspiration behind the ruler of Manipur creating the sport for his

troops. While many believe ancient Persia and Mongolia show evidence in even more ancient history of the sport being played, it certainly died out there to be played in the North West Frontier in Chitral (now with Pakistan), then across the border in India’s Kargil, Drass and Leh districts of Ladakh (in the state of Jammu & Kashmir).

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sophisticated version of the sport being played.

This year from 22nd Nov to 29th Nov 2017, the 11th Manipur International Polo Tournament took place.

Besides the Indian Polo Association (known as the India A) team, the local team of the MHRPA (known as India B), Morocco, England, USA, and Argentina were all represented.

Certainly the local team were favourites even though they had lost the finals in the previous two years, last year’s winners being Australia.

While the US Team whose manager Ed Armstrong has been supporting the event and once again brought a talented and young team including the just turned eighteen Brennan Welles( 2 goals and whose mother Kelly Welles runs a polo school in Maryland),along with captain Jorge Vasquez (2), Nate Berube (2), Nick Johnson (3), Kegan Walsh (3),

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Team England had Captain George Shelton (1), Ben Eeley (2) Phil Seller (2) and Robin Ormerod (2) Team Morocco featured Bady Kebir, Hicham Zine, Rachid Haddouche and Phillippe Darroux each of one goal except Phillipe who was scratch.

India A included an Indian Army team comprising Maj.Narendra Singh (0) Corporals Ram Singh (1) and Vijay Singh (2) and Col T Waraich ( 2) with IJ Singh being reserve at scratch and playing the exhibition for India A The home team from Manipur (India B) captained by Pradeep Kumar, followed by Jogendra Meitei,L Atangba, P. Ojit and S Dill.

George Dill of the United States Polo Association who was present throughout commented on the local lads being at least 3 to 4 goals each! Post tournament, Nicholas Scortichini commented to IJ that since the home team had beaten a

10 goal Argentine team, they were at least 10 goals plus in total handicap.

Argentina was the hot ticket item .The league matches between the stalwarts namely India B (Manipur) , USA and Argentina and also England were fascinating to watch.

For Morocco the minnows of the tournament followed by India A, their sheer fighting spirit was amazing to watch.

The entire event was punctuated by amazing opening ceremonies displaying ancient culture, skill at mounted games on horseback, drumming, dancers, music, music festivals and of course the native polo and native equestrian martial displays which included women riders as well.

During the course of the tournament, players visited local festivals, native bazaars, rock music and fashion shows which were of an international class, and banquets hosted by the MHRPA. The President of the

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Association led by H Deleep Singh with his and the rest of the MHRPA team, did a stellar job in organizing all aspects of the tournament.The arrangements for the guests and their hospitality which did not fall short at any stage of the 8 day plus duration.This included excursions to the beautiful Lohktak Lake .

Having landed in Manipur’s Imphal airport on the 21st, the league matches commenced the next day.

The Moroccan Team inspite being the lowest handicapped team (3 goals) and being allowed entry as an exception since this was a 10 goal+ tournament, played with tremendous heart. Rachid Haddouche was exceptional. Along with Hicham Zine and Bady Kebir and even Phillipe Darroux, Rachid showed sheer grit and determination and even brilliance. If one did not look at the scoreboard and merely at the play, one would not have found the Moroccan team falling short really! The team was also certainly

the most elegantly dressed in the evenings! And they all had a tremendous laugh and gave an encore when watching the televised replays and cheered Phillippe Darroux for scoring one of the two goals in one match! Rachid told IJ who was impressed at the effort made constantly in every game, that “this is how we play”.

While the American team which played brilliantly throughout, lost on overall points inspite of levelling their game with Manipur (India B) which showed the talent they possessed, in the semi finals, the high drama was there for all to see at the final match between Argentina and Manipur (India B). The emotion had been building up. When Manipur (India B) scored the winning goal just as the last chukka was ending, the emotional Manipur team captain leading the victory lap, took his horse at full gallop (the hardy ponies can actually play repeat chukkas) and dropping his reins,

twisted his body sidewise to the crowd, bowed his head in homage and folded his hands in the Indian Namaskar , all at the same time (!), to the adulating home crowd. His number one shouted out to the crowd, pointing to the Indian flag on his chest. It was a highly emotional moment for a partisan crowd.

In the evening in a sign of amazing grace, at the social evening and announcement for the winners, the regal Martin Scortichini who was sitting at the front table with his mates stood up to cheer the opposing Captain, Pradeep Kumar as the latter returned from the diaz. Pradeep in typical Manipur fashion bowed and shook Scortichini’s hands. The true spirit of the sport lived on.

So mark your calendars for next year and watch all the action up close in Imphal. For more information on travel write to ijspolotravel@ gmail.com see also www.manipurpolo.com

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BEACH POLO

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WORLD CUP

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BEACH POLO WORLD CUP 2018

Josh Jakobitz | josh@htpolo.com Strolling down Collins Avenue and turning right into the W South Beach, colorful banners welcome us to the return of Beach Polo World Cup. There’s a static of excitement in the air. Karma Automotive luxury cars sparkle in the sunlight as sun-kissed fans admire the curves and beauty of the sleek machines.

Valet parking in front of the W looks page 48

like a scene from a movie as a line of cars as far as you can see inch forward, tops down, windows open, music blasting, keys and tips are exchanged with the friendly valets, and attendees dressed in beach chic are whisked away to the grand entrance of “Beach Polo World Cup 2018.”

tion line of Beach Polo clothing. On the opposite side, David Yurman’s pop-up shop is attracting groups of friends coming to check out the newest collection. Tropical drinks are served, in addition to Fossmari champagne, Macallan, and The Whispering Angel d’Esclans. No one’s hand is empty.

We pass the retail village, complete with La Martina Polo’s limited-edi-

Karen Kranenburg, the international polo fixer, spies us and waves us

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over to the reserved seating area.

Introductions are made around we settle into the living room VIP-style set ups. Lauren Melamed, in charge of PR for the event, is the queen of multi-tasking. She’s attentive, while on her phone, kissing and greeting guests, attending to every detail. Desserts and hors d’oevres on silver platters are making the rounds. “Sir, may I offer you a glass of champagne?” Why, yes, you may.

The Miami crowd is flirty, fun and beautiful. Professional polo players mingle cheerfully with attendees, posing for selfies. The atmosphere is sophisticated but relaxed, tanned and fashionable, even as rain drops fall in choral cadence on the tops of umbrellas and tents – splat splat splat splat splat! – on Saturday. But Sunday dawns anew, bright and beautiful, the sea sparkling turquoise and the sky a brilliant blue.

The mercury settles on a comfortable 68 F and the fans are back in droves.

Behind the glamorous scenes of the rebirth of Beach Polo World Cup, are event organizers Tito Gaudenzi and Melissa Ganzi, who envisioned restoring the event – once a pillar of the winter social calendar in Miami – to its original glory. “The turnout exceeded our expectations,” said Ganzi. The duo pulled off an action packed weekend that started Thursday night and didn’t stop until the last drop of champagne was poured on Sunday.

In addition to the high-goal polo matches that featured Nic Roldan (on the cover), Riley Ganzi, Juan Bollini and Jessie Bray, an onslaught of nightlife activities complement Miami’s reputation as a party city. From the official kickoff party at Delano South Beach on Thursday night with music by Dave Sol to the La Martina Fashion Presentation and Macallan tasting at WALL at W South Beach and Friday night’s Polo Player Night Out at ORA Miami with DJ Posso, Beach page 50

Polo World Cup made headlines for its panache over the weekend.

La Martina team took home the Beach Polo World Cup trophy.

Roldan of the Macallan team was named MVP. The event’s official charity sponsor was the Bass Museum, which received a percentage of event proceeds.

The dynamic duo of Gaudenzi and Ganzi secured major sponsorships from leading brands W Hotel South Beach, David Yurman, La Martina Polo Team, Karma Automotive, Macallan, Chateau d’Esclan, Bal Harbour Village, Douglas Elliman South Florida, La Croix, People from Barbados, Bruno Magli, and Grand Champions Polo Club.

Gaudenzi, on his way to Kitzbuhel, Switzerland, to play in the Bendura Bank Snow Polo Cup, said about the event, “We (were) so excited to see our vision come to fruition.

After five years of tireless work, we reintroduced the event in its proper form and we are looking forward to many successful years to come.”

General admission was free to the public while VIP tickets were reserved and invitation-only, creating the exclusive experience that polo aficionados expect. Amongst the VIPs were Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary and Daymond John, Sex and the City writer Candace Bushnell, Alexis Stoudemire, Jeremy Shockey and former Victoria’s Secret supermodel Ines Rivero. While weather tested the endurance of the players, horses, and crowds, the re-introduction of Miami Beach Polo should be noted a success. The all-star combination of some of the world’s top players, matched with top luxury brands, the best organizers and fixers in the polo business, have secured Beach Polo World Cup on the calendar of every serious polo enthusiast.

For more information, please visit miamipolocup.com.

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Beach Polo World Cup’s VIP invite-only sidelines attracted Sterling Jones and Omar Mangalji (right), Joyce Boycenelli, Caroline Vreeland, and Jason Odio (below, right), Jeremy Shockey (below, left), and Kevin O’Leary and Daymond John (pictured very bottom, flanking Tito Gaudenzi)

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Polo players Nic Roldan (top left), Juan Bollini and Rommy Giani (top right), Sebastian Schnieiger, Sylvia Cornelius and Melissa Ganzi (above); Left: models on the catwalk in La Martina’s limited-edition line page 53

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This page: party-goers enjoyed the nightlife surrounding Beach Polo; opposite page: Nic Roldan interviewed by Hola TV

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HEAD OF SECURITY ADAM JARRELL

Oksana Toussaint-Vig | oksavig@gmail.com

Adam Jarrell of AZ Consulting boasts over 20 years of combined experience in the military, law enforcement, narcotics detection K-9 handler, executive protection, estate protection, private security consulting, private investigation, and handto-hand combat. His father was a US Marine and his mother is a chief probation officer. He’s combined his upbringing with his career path and passion for protection in order to provide services to some of the most delicate and difficult security situations in the world.

As he explained to Polo Lifestyles, the foundational aspect of providing security to a client is the threat assessment combined with the advance work done prior to the start of any protection job. His agents are trained all over the world. “You’ll never hear me say there is any specific school, course, or academy that will completely prepare a person to conduct private close protection operations. These types of skill sets are garnered through real-life experience and training,” he said.

Not every job includes protecting clients. Sometimes, Jarrell is contracted to protect and move high-value items across borders or dangerous parts of a country. “I was asked to transport an item worth a fortune across the country alone.

It seemed like an easy task but the planning involved was immense.

The fact that you really have no idea how many people know about the transport can be nerve-racking.

There are a lot of variables,” he

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said.

Another variable can be job security. Dealing with A-list celebrities, who are broadly considered the most difficult client to protect, can be extremely hectic, with priorities becoming clouded and re-arranged by the client or manager.

The payoffs and experiences can far outweigh the uncertain variables. Jarrell has traveled the globe with AZ Consulting. Recently, Polo Lifestyles’ senior global fashion curator Oksana Toussaint-Vig caught up with Jarrell on a rare day off?

OTV: Who’s harder to protect: princes or princesses? Or... other?

AJ: I would say the most difficult out of almost every type of private client would be some A- List celebrities. It can be extremely hectic and a lot of times your list of responsibilities can become clouded. There also isn’t a lot of job security.

of the world’s most respected artists and some of my personal favorites.

I worked around a specific client whose identity I won’t disclose. This person will always be one of my favorite musical artist to ever live.

OTV: Where do your jobs come from?

AJ: I work basically off of referral.

Usually either a past client will suggest me to someone, but a lot of work comes from meeting other protection professionals while working. When you network with them and exchange information, they call you when they are offered work they can’t take.

OTV: Have you ever worked with anyone worth over five billions dollars? What was is like?

OTV: What’s the best part of your job?

AJ: Yes, he owned a worldwide corporation. It was an amazing experience! I like to be like a sponge so when I’m around a man like that, I can learn a lot from him just through observation alone.

AJ: The experiences!!! The things I get to experience, witness, hear etc.. Hearing music made by some

OTV: You worked as a security instructor? What is one piece of advice you gave agents in training?

AJ: Yes, I worked as an executive protection and estate protection instructor for a private security company with a 33-day academy, GI Bill certified. This way, US veterans can use their college money to attend training. I would always tell agents starting out, “Try your best to become as valuable as possible to your client in every way possible.”

Doing that builds job security. For example, if there is a power outage, your client’s estate might need its central air re-started. When you call for the service and the technician arrives, have him teach you how to reboot the system yourself. This way the next time it happens, you can have the air conditioning up and running in no time without having to call for service. Your client will appreciate that.

OTV: What is the most important skill to have?

AJ: Being a great observer of body language and people skills. Being able to talk to just about anyone and using verbal judo and conflict resolution can help prevent physical altercations and lengthy law suits.

OTV: What is one of the most common misconceptions made by people when hiring a “protection professional” or “bodyguard”?

AJ: That size matters – or that just having been a police officer is enough. Some of the most skilled protection professionals I’ve ever met or heard of were of normal size, just extremely well-educated and trained in their craft. And that is what is most important. As for police officers, many law enforcement officers have little and sometimes zero training in executive protection. Most law enforcement officers spend their time reacting to crime after the fact, and later investigating to solve the crime. As an executive protection agent, you do not have the luxury of reacting after the fact.

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You need to be skilled at reading body language and being able to recognize when a person is going to make a move. You need to have measured reactions and maintain professionalism at all times.

Executive protection requires exquisite planning and attention to detail. This isn’t a conversation about 6’8” 450-pound bodyguards with only size as a qualification. I’m talking about career professionals.

OTV: What is one of your biggest frustrations when it comes to some clients?

AJ: Nothing bothers me more than when a client contacts me requesting a protection agent with an extensive background and a list of specifics like law enforcement experience, combat veteran, EMT, formal executive protection training plus plenty of actual experience with many clients. Then I ask what the budget is and they say “$350 per day.” To be brutally honest, in this industry you get what you pay for. But I can tell you right now, no highly trained combat veteran with a law enforcement and EMT background is going to offer all of his or her skills and be willing to risk their life on a daily basis privately for you for $350 per day.

OTV: What is one of your biggest goals?

AJ: To start an accredited executive protection academy. I want a school that you can attend for at least six months. A school that, when you leave, you will be highly trained and walk out of the door with some client experience. I want my school to change the industry standards and make it difficult to even get hired by anyone

unless you have a certificate from my school. And I want to have a very successful job placement program for all veterans who graduate my school.

OTV: How do you help protect a client from legal liability?

AJ: I carry insurance through my company, but I also verify that any company I suggest to a client is fully licensed and insured. I make sure that each company and agent is credible and has a credible background. It’s important that whoever physically protects the client documents everything important and can be considered a credible or expert witness in court.

OTV: Is there a specific type of contract you haven’t landed yet that you would like?

AJ: Yes, I would love a government defense contract. I think that would be a fun challenge.

OTV: Is it important that an executive protection agent be licensed to carry a firearm concealed?

AJ: I think it completely depends on the client and whether or not there are any specifically known threats. I do not personally believe that carrying a firearm is necessary to protect a client in any modern city. But having the ability to carry a firearm does make you more valuable to some clients; however, some clients will specifically tell you not to carry while working for them – and that, I do not agree with. Usually it’s because of the bad publicity they would get if the protection agent were to ever make a mistake. Not to mention the law suits. But for the clients who hire well-trained agents, they can bet, that, if their

agent fires his or her weapon, the only thing hit will be the intended target.

OTV: Have you ever been seriously hurt while protecting a client?

AJ: Not once. I’d like to think my planning and well-executed advanced details have helped play a role in stopping that from happening. But have I been tested by anyone? Many times!

OTV: Do you still personally protect clients?

AJ: Yes. I enjoy protecting clients still. I have a passion for it that will never die.

OTV: If the government of any foreign country wanted to contract you for work, would you fulfill the contract?

AJ: Yes. I have once before. It, of course, depends on the contract and the needs. But as long as it fell within the scope of my expertise, I would welcome the opportunity and the work. If it’s a large contract, the fact that I am a consultant will make it easy for me to choose another company to partner with and subcontract.

OTV: What is the name of your company? And why did you name it that?

AJ: My company is called AZ Consulting and I am based in Burbank, Calif. I named it that because every client will receive professional security consulting from A-Z. OTV: How can you be reached?

AJ: My name is Adam Jarrell and I can be reached at jarrella80@ gmail.com serious inquiries only please. page 65

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FARNIS

SPANISH LUXURY

Oksana Toussaint-Vig oksavig@gmail.com

FARNIS is a Spanish luxury handbag brand co-founded by Carlos Farnis and Marta Mejias based on the concept of craftmanship of the high quality and unquestionable luxury.

Farnis bags are perfectly finished to withstand the test of time.

The bags are works of art with beautiful pink Italian pouf lining in every Farnis bag, coupled with 24-carat gold-plated finishings, are highly sought-after by bag aficionados. Assembled carefully by Spanish craftsman over the course of days and weeks, the delicate handling and fidelity to concept drawings set Farnis apart from other luxury handbag designers. page 68

Carlos, the architect, is the creative director while Marta is the CEO. Carlos, in his creative role and architectural background, designs with a very clear vision about the way he contributes to the luxury industry.

Marta is actively involved in the creative process as a fashion enthusiast. They are an indivisible team and every Farnis bag is a mixture of both of them: he provides the silhouette, the architecture, and the lines; she provides the colors and functionality that each bag needs.

Farnis is an acronym for Force, Architecture, Rebellion, Neo-Luxury, Innovation and Symmetry. Founded in 2012 while Carlos was working in Rabat, Morocco, as an architect,

where he felt limited and frustrated.

“One spring afternoon walking through the most exclusive streets of Rabat, I focused on the luxury bags and I felt they were very similar among them. I thought the patterns needed more innovation and that offering something different was possible. That very evening I started working on my first sketches and to investigate the luxury business and I realized it is a constantly growing business,” he said.

Marta had only just finished university courses and was working for the Olympic Games in London. “He told me about his idea and I thought it was a great decision to contribute with my academic knowledge, my passion for fashion and my expe-

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rience as the daughter of an entrepreneurial couple to this amazing project.”

Michael Jackson, David Bowie and Salvador Dali make the list of Carlos’ top three mentors and idols. “They have greatly influenced my personality and the way I create. In my opinion, they represent the real meaning of being an artist: to do what no one has ever done before.”

Farnis bags meet the needs of different styles through their line of totes, shoppers, shoulder bags and clutches. “It’s the geometry of our patterns that initially took six months of investigation. Each bag takes five days to be manufactured. “Our bags are classic bags with avant-garde lines,” says Marta. “The bags meet the functional requirements, but with an absolutely new design from Carlos’ talent.”

Farnis’ priority is the product, the quality and the design. “Marta and I are part of the Millennial generation, keenly aware of the importance of social media, digital marketing, and e-commerce for company (success) today,” says Carlos. “One of our goals is to continue developing our brand in this direction, to remain an international reference of quality and design.”

With their strong geometric shapes and lines, a Farnis bag feels like a piece of art. “Buying a Farnis is much more than buying a luxury bag.

It is about having that bag that makes you feel exactly the same than the first time you had it, over and over again. Every time you see it, every time you wear it. It is much more than price or a trademark. It is about feeling that you are buying art, that you are wearing art.”

“The distinctive character of Farnis is the powerful lines of each design and the way to design it is simply something innate to me,” says Carlos. “Nevertheless, I am always studying the work of professionals who inspire me.

For instance, I am currently studying the work of consolidated architects as Zaha Hadid or Mies Van der Rohe, the emerging artist Tony Gum and the singer Björk.”

As for recommendations from their collection, Carlos and Marta point clients to the Gran Matilda for day-to-day, Bravissimo, their best-seller that’s ideal for any situation, Greta, for a totally innovative outfit, and Sophia, their sophisticated jewel. page 69

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ALEJANDRA G.

FEARLESS DESIGN MEETS PHILANTHROPY Oksana Toussaint-Vig | oksavig@gmail.com

Alejandra G learned how to make hand-crafted shoes in shoe design school in Milan and launched her first collection in the winter of 2012. Composed of exotic printed leathers and eye-catching colors, Alejandra’s collections are not only luxurious and innovative; they are inspired by European trends.

“You can’t teach creativity, but you can learn how to make a shoe from scratch,” the energetic, family-oriented designer says. While many say that beauty is pain, Alejandra doesn’t agree. “I make beautifully designed yet sexy heels that are comfortable,” page 74

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“I’m very eclectic when it to my materials,” she says.

Her design inspiration come from her contemporaries.

“I absolutely love Sophia Webster, Brian Atwood and Giuseppe Zanotti because I feel they are very unique and original designers.”

she boasts. “Nothing is better than when a client says, ‘I can’t believe how sexy yet comfortable your shoes are.’”

The advice-giving shoe designer always knew she wanted to work in fashion. She didn’t know that fashion would drive her into philanthropy. Her initiative, “Soles4Souls: Wearing Out Poverty” puts brandnew shoes into the hands of children around the world who would otherwise go without or suffer from ill-fitting or worn-out hand-me-

down shoes. Some of the recipients of the Soles4Souls gifts have come to work for her namesake brand. Brothers Adio and Chike of Nashville, Tenn., received shoes from Alejandra G years ago when a violent incident left them homeless. Help from other organizations, along with Alejandra G, made starting over hard but not impossible. In Nashville, 19% percent of the population lives below the poverty line and nearly 31% of them are children. One year ago, the broth-

ers accompanied brand reps on a trip to Honduras to deliver shoes to school children there. “Poverty looks different in every country, but a gift of shoes always makes a real difference.”

As for her own brand, her hand-selected materials are Italian high-quality kid leather, kid suede, snake skin and her own printed fabrics. “My shoes are definitely ‘show stoppers,’ any woman who wears them will definitely stand out,” says Alejandra. page 75

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BAG BRAND BELQUIS & ITALIAN LUXURY TRADITION Oksana Toussaint-Vig oksavig@gmail.com

Designer Reem Salman is a lawyer by profession, a mother of two and a self-confessed handbag addict who realized her passion in Italy in the summer of 2012 when she met a handbag manufacturer who agreed to work with her on her line, Belquis.

“It was pure coincidence,” she says.

“It was a deep learning curve for me, as it took it on my own one step at a time. I never studied fashion design, so from translating ideas to paper, working with a manufacturer who didn’t speak English, sourcing the leather and hardware – everything was difficult at the beginning.”

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Each Belquis bag is a story of craftsmanship. Each limited-edition bag is made with attention to details to become the beautiful bag that celebrities and influencers are proud to carry. “The majority of my collection is inspired by the Italian leather industry, Italian culture and cities, since this all started in Italy. I love Gucci and their Italian DNA. My latest collection; however, is called ‘Arabian Nights’ and was inspired by the beauty of Arab women. I feel like a kid in a candy story when considering all the colors and textures and how they fit into our designs.”

Belquis bags are manufactured from genuine printed calf leather to

give a distinctive character. Printed goat leather debuted in the latest collection. Additionally, a limited line features python leather. The cubeshaped Chiara is Salman’s favorite bag from the new collection. “It feels like a gift box and was designed to open like one to reflect that feeling,” she says.

When updating your bags this season, Salman dares you to be different. “Avoid trending bags that many others are carrying – create your own style for others to follow,” she says. Look for Belquis to be sold in fine retails stores near you as they are ever-expanding global sales.

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IN PURSUIT OF THE MOST IMPERFECT SUNGLASSES

Oksana Toussaint-Vig oksavig@gmail.com

Xiwen Zhang was beyond frustrated searching for the perfect pair of sunglasses. But, instead of waiting for a new season’s collection from a luxury brand, she set out to make her own sungless. How hard could it be?

In the process, her eyewear brand, For Art’s Sake, was born. The line appeals to a broad range of consumers who appreciate the FAS design inspiration -- this season the Pantone Color of the Year Ultra Violet delivers a punch -- bold styles, and price points. “We are loved by trend setters, art lovers, and fans of high-quality, unique products,” she says.

“We set out to make sunglasses of exceptional quality, with an affordable luxury price tag, so finding the right producer to work with was my

biggest challenge. We had to be sure that the quality wouldn’t be compromised under any circumstances,” Xiwen says.

Xiwen connects and communicates with her customers directly and easily with social media.

“Social media has made the fashion industry more inclusive, which is about time. We want our customers to feel good about being themselves and wear what they want, when they want.”

Imperfectionism, the design inspiration behind FAS, is defined by Xiwen as a creative, innovative experiment that is unafraid to take risks and appears imperfect in order to achieve something new and original.

Xiwen says, “I think all of us are sure about our own personal style,

but some of us might be afraid to really own it and say ‘yes this is me’. Imperfectionism is about coming to terms with our unique style, learning to be confident and bold in it, and embracing it. That’s why imperfectionism such an important message for us!”

The 2018 Pantone Color of the Year, Ultra Violet, is currently inspiring FAS. “We have a range of gorgeous, ultra violet sunglasses that people can wear throughout 2018. Above all, however, people should choose the sunglasses they feel resonate with their personal style most.”

With more innovative designs on the horizon, more art and more creative collaborations, FAS will also dabble in retail pop-up shops this year, maybe even at a few VIP polo sidelines.

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TAMASHEE SANDALS ARABIAN INSPIRATION

Oksana Toussaint-Vig | oksavig@gmail.com

The Arabian Peninsula conjures up images of sultans and gleaming palaces, palm tree-lined streets, rich foods and strong tea. It also serves as the backdrop, as well as the inspiration, for luxury sandal brand Tamashee. “Every collection has source of inspiration and theme revolving around the beautiful elements of the Arabian Peninsula, which are forgotten or do not have enough light shed on them,” say designers Muneera Al Tamimi and Mohammed Kazim. “We want our clients to know that, when they buy our sandals, they are contributing directly to preserving and representing elements of one of the old civilizations in the world.”

The pair keep traditional craft and elements alive through their products, combining age-old techniques of actual craft production from their homeland with the modern manufacturing approaches of Spain. Use of teakwood, stitch and embroidery techniques, leather tanning and use of plants, trees and indigio in natural dyes all are inspired by the Arabian Peninsula. page 82

“Preserving beautiful elements such as metal rings, which were inspired from dagger holders, and re-introducing them in a modern, appealing manner to today’s fashion is one of our greatest achievements since creating Tamashee,” the designers say. They have also introduced camel leather to their brand line, which is becoming popular with clients. “Our favorite moments are discovering more regional elements to preserve when we travel. We then translate that into the product and brand, from color selection to materials to patterns and prototypes.”

Tamashee sandals are designed to be worn with traditional or modern outfits. “We advise customers to pick a color that matches their style and try it with different outfits,” say the designers.

Tamashee products are sold at Level Shoes in the Dubai Mall (UAE), Robinsons in Festival City, House of Fraser in Yas Mall (Abu Dhabi), Draft Thoughts in Centria Mall and Rubaiyat Department Store on Starts Avenue (Saudi Arabia), and at 51 East in Lagoona Mall (Qatar).

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Q&A with BERA

Ancient Turkish craftsmanship lives Oksana Toussaint-Vig oksavig@gmail.com

that is beyond standards, special, modern and hand-crafted.

OTV: Who is the designer behind Bera?

OTV: Who are your biggest mentors in this industry?

BERA: Bera was founded by three women with the idea of marketing traditional handcraft to the whole world. Our founders, Büşra, Özge and Beyza, desire to shift the brand to the international arena by putting together trends, art, iconic designs and strategy.

BERA: Undoubtedly, Turkish craftsmen – their teaching is one the touchstones of the Bera brand.

OTV: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as designesr?

BERA: A handbag is an irreplaceable accessory for a woman, and we knew that we should have a brand.

In time, we decided to accelerate our dream because it was getting harder to find a unique bag – a bag

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OTV: What role does social media play in fashion?

BERA: It is a matter of fact that, social media has transformed the fashion industry. No one in these days can imagine a fashion brand without social media. We all are aware that globally well-known brands and social media influencer collaborations are mutually beneficial.

OTV: How do you want clients to feel when buying your handbags?

BERA: Special! This is the correct

word! We would like to be the love of the women that had enough the mainstream things they see always in social media, magazines, streets and on TV. Just imagine for a second, you are buying a bag and it has a finger prints of a craftsman on it who made the bag with 2,500 year old art. This makes every women feel special!

OTV: What is the inspiration behind your creations?

BERA: Art and other everything is being fed by it. We love our bags and their stories. We really want our bags should revive different senses.

OTV: Where did you learn your craft?

BERA: The handicraft of our first collection is Kazazie, and it’s handicraft method dates back 2,500

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years. This is the handicraft from the Black Sea area, from where our family is from originally.

Every single time we went back to the Black Sea, we see Kazazie, a handicraft that uses authentic silver ropes that are darned by hand. This art form doesn’t exist anywhere else. It could be used by a sophisticated woman but wasn’t seen as a luxurious item. That is the why, in a way, we decided to learn in detail and use Kazazie. There are many handicrafts that have already been forgotten. Kazazie should not be one of them.

OTV: From your collection: what is your favorite handbag and your favorite pattern?

BERA: Our favorite is Ruka! Ruka is our lucky charm and our essential in all collections. Also, we will be having a crescent symbol made by a craftsman with gold dust and sand paper. So with this, the bag will reflect our culture in a very modern way. Unfortunately our fans will wait awhile to meet with this collection. But we are sure gold has never been that cool before!

OTV: You are located in Turkey and use mainly local suppliers. How does this enhance the quality of your handbags?

BERA: Turkey has really high standards in terms of crafting. Of course, here we are talking about traditional and artistic standards not technology. If we consider that one of the keystones of Bera, it’s high quality so we are in the correct place.

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Interview by Oksana Toussaint-Vig

LOUIS LEEMAN & ERICA PELOSINI

THE DEVIL’S IN THE DETAILS

Metal accessories, tassels, specialty embroidery, futuristic prints and only the highest-quality fabrics are the keystones of men’s footwear design brand Louis Leeman.

Partnerships with Roberto Cavalli, Cesare Casadei and, most recently, Mary Katrantzou led to the development of the men’s collection seen on the runway of the latter’s SS18 show. Last year, Leeman launched their women’s footwear collection at Fashion Week, accomplishing yet another milestone of the young brand.

Creative directors (pictured on the left) Louis Leeman and Erica Pelosini, formerly of Vogue Japan, brought the brand to life in 2012 to create a harmonious blend between beatniks, European style and the imcomparable quality of Tuscan craftsmanship. The collections are perfect for the man obsessed with image since meticulous attention is paid to every detail.

“With Erica, I created a footwear brand to fill the gap in some specific shoes on the market,” Leeman says. “My favorite style is probably tasseled slippers, because it’s our brand signature style and I’m wearing it almost every day.”

The duo admires the evolving designs of the established fashion houses. “Heritage brands like Ferragamo, Dior, Balenciaga and Gucci play an important role in shaping our way of looking to fashion and design,” the designers said.

Louis Leeman designs are classic shoes in a modern world. “One of the key factors behind our brand is the mix between tradition and innovation. We’ve always been very keen in working with Tuscan artisans who are keeping alive very ancient traditions. Since our first collection we wanted to work with classic designs personalizing them with special accessories or applications and embroideries,” says Pelosini.

Their geographic location in Italy and use of local suppliers enhances the quality of the brand. “Italy and, especially Tuscany, is the heart for the production of luxury shoes, so what could be better than being located and working here with local artisans?” asks Pelosini.

Ronnie Wood from Rolling Stones wowed the designers when he wore their shoes. “Seeing one of your icons (wear) your creation for his gig is something difficult to describe in words,” Leeman says. We get it. page 91

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Polo Lifestyles recently sat down with Alex Jiaravanont, the designer behind the brand ESemblē based in Hong Kong.

OTV: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career as a luxury bag designer?

AJ: I always wanted to go into fashion when I was younger, but in the end my conservative family wins and ended up becoming an architect, and then switched occupation again by working for my family’s corporation. While I enjoy my work immensely, I started ESemblē as a creative outlet—a labor of love if you will. As to why a man would design women’s handbag instead of men’s bag, the answer is simple: women’s handbags are more fun!

OTV: What was your biggest challenge when starting your own line?

AJ: The market is so saturated already, and with the accessibility of the Internet we often find all the cool ideas we dream up has already been done. Nonetheless, we feel it is a challenge worth taking, and as long we stay true to ourselves and add our own spin, there will be someone out there that can connect with us.

OTV: How do you come up with such classic and original designs?

AJ: When people heard I am going into bag design, they all expected an architect to come up with really wacky, space-age forms. In actuality, we are more interested in the human emotional aspect of a handbag.

When our head designer came up with the idea to recreate the bags in her mother’s closet during her childhood, our team all jumped on that concept. This is what led to our design which are vintage inspired bags with a modern dash of color.

OTV: What role do you think social media plays in the fashion industry?

AJ: Social media is absolutely crucial. Now that people can crepage 92

ate their own voice with a smaller budget, we see a lot more creativity. With increased homegrown exposure, consumers are inspired by more aesthetic subcultures that previously would not be visible in mainstream media. The consumer wins, because they have more choice available to piece together their own expression.

OTV: How do you want people to feel when buying your handbags?

AJ: We want people to feel happiness derived from a sense of discovery. Many people have expressed to us that our bag’s quality and functionality exceeded their expectation due to our accessible price, and we take pride in that. When conceiving the brand, we set out to be inclusive—a quality bag does not have to cost someone’s monthly salary.

The word “luxury” for us is about the ability for everyone to spoil themselves, not a false sense of exclusivity derived from keeping things out of people’s reach.

OTV: Where can I buy your bags?

AJ: We complement our online store with some brick and mortar retailers (Harvey Nichols, Lab Concept/Lane Crawford, Kapok, Waow in Hong Kong to name a few). We believe it is important for customers to engage the bag physically in these stores in order to generate interest and build enough trust for them to buy online in the future. It is also worth noting that the stores in Hong Kong are very supportive of home grown brands, and we are very grateful to them for believing in us.

OTV: What is your design inspiration?

AJ: Having spent a good part of my life working in the creative field in New York City, I have naturally acquired an appreciation for the vintage aesthetic. The quality seen in vintage pieces often surpass their price. Moreover, vintage hunting is

an act of discovery that a person can retread some memory every time they re-engage with those pieces. This love ties well into what I have previously stated with our reinterpretation of nostalgic designs.

OTV: What it tough getting started in business?

AJ: Very tough. What I learned from this experience is a like-minded and diverse team is extremely important.

One of my partners, Marco, is an experienced retailer, while Amy is an accomplished lawyer. Each member contributes in different ways, and we challenge and push each other.

OTV: What materials do you use?

AJ: We mainly use vegetable-tanned and nappa leather, though recently we began to incorporate canvas.

We are also looking into different leather treatments, such as this hand folded Japanese cow leather that we will be using for our line in the near future.

OTV: What is your favorite design?

AJ: The bell bag. It is a shape that not many people have in their personal collection, and possesses a delicate quality that we represents our vintage aesthetic well.

OTV: Any regrets?

AJ: I wish I would’ve done this sooner in my life. But then again, my thought process is more methodical now, so not a major regret.

OTV: What fans can expect from The Esemblē in the near future?

AJ: We kick off this season with two brand new shapes: the “Demi Moon” and “Deli Basket.” They are a continuation on our exploration on simple shapes that differ from what people have already owned.

Also look for the launch of our sister brand called A. Jiara, which has some unisex pieces so the boys don’t feel so left out.

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ESEMBLE

HONG KONG DESIGN

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120 families

PRODUCING HOPE, BAGS, HATS, POMPONS, SHIPIBO FROM BRAZIL, PERU AND COLOMBIA

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Marcia Kemp always had a strong desire to help those in need. This passion began with a volunteer job at the Children’s Institute and later led to many corporate citizenship projects.

Thus, with a goal to conquer the fashion industry, Marcia launched Nannacay® (originating from Quechua Aymara, Nannacay, meaning sisterhood of women) with a new social fashion project: Creative Hands Transforming Lives.

Alongside this need to help, Marcia has a great passion for The projects’ mission is to help traveling. Curious to experience people develop the creative new cultures, traditions and potential of these communities, people, Marcia always gave serving as a bridge between those herself the most exotic itineraries. who need help and those who want to help.

During one of her trips, Marcia experienced the most unique Delicately handmade, the pieces craftsmanship. She knew what are extremely unique. Marcia, who she had seen needed to be shared lends her expertise to communities with others. in Peru, Colombia and Brazil, coordinates all development, colour pattern and quality control.

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SCISSOR IN HER HAND

MUCCA HANDBAG DESIGNER HAD AN EARLY START IN FAMILY SHOE WORKSHOP Oksana Toussaint-Vig oksavig@gmail.com

“As a child, I loved to spend hours and hours in my grandfather’s workshop. He was one of the best shoemakers of his time,” says Irena Mišić Fileš the Croatian designer behind the brand Mucca.

“I was keen on cutting leather and buzzing around the old Singer sewing machine. I still remember the scent and sound of the natural leather being cut with my grandfather’s scalpel. My passion for design stems from my early childhood,” she says.

That passion now produces the timeless Mucca fashion handbags, which are limited-edition in quantity and top-quality in handicraft production. The exotic leathers lused in the collections satsify even the most demanding fashion lovers.

As the designer and owner of Mucca, a brand that’s only eight years old, Fileš is involved in the challenge of page 98

concepting and manufacturing every bag.

“I love cutting leather and creating new models of Mucca’s handbags. It is the part of the job that really relaxes and delights me. I sometimes work deep into the night until the handbag takes on the desired look,” she says. Top-quality finishes combined with specialty handicraft production and exotic leather selection giveMucca’s handbags their signature aesthetic.

The luxury handbag market presents a never-ending set of hurdles for young fashion brands. “The biggest challenge with each collection is answering the question that keeps coming up: ‘Will the market recognize the new model and the quality it offers?’”

“I plan to continue to successfully develop the brand and to delight customers around the world on a daily basis,” she says. “My biggest wish is that a woman, when selecting a Mucca handbag, feels an indescribable urge to have it, to feel the excitement and finally says ‘That’s it, this one is mine!’”

As for her personal favorite, Beguša Army model is her favorite handbag. “I take it to work every day. It is practical when I have to carry with me all those tiny things of my 15-month-old twins. I also like yellow Big Mama which is very spacious, functional and wearable.”

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On the Market

SWISS CASTLE PERCHED ON SNOW-CAPPED MOUNTAINS OF THE ENGADIN ALPINE VALLEY REGION Listing Price: $185,000,000 The most expensive estate in Switzerland hit the market for a staggering $185 million. The architectural marvel features a ceiling with floating candles that rivals Hogwarts’ Great Hall and is perched on snow-capped mountains in the Engadin alpine valley region.

At a little over 43,000 square feet,

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Lonsdaleite is a combination of sharp geometric lines and neutral tones that ensure unrivalled elegance throughout the property.

A dramatic entryway leads to the grand reception, where 35-foot floor-to-ceiling windows reveal sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Rectangular strips of mink cover an entire wall opposite

the dual-arched fireplaces. On the side of the grand reception is a crushed-red-velvet-encased library, complete with a secret office hidden behind one of the scarlet walls.

The breakfast nook introduces a whole new level of decadent luxury with its 24-karat gold-leaf wall and $145,000 bespoke egg sculp-

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ture that adorns the ceiling. The nook’s shape resembles that of a cracked egg, a unique architectural choice that ties the theme together. The result is a warm and inviting atmosphere, which is ideal for a relaxed morning before hitting Switzerland’s world-class ski slopes.

A set of glass stairs lead underground to five en-suite bedrooms. Each room boasts buttery-soft Loro Piana-cashmerecovered walls and stunning bathrooms dressed in rare stone. There is also an entertainment lounge designed specifically for guests with a gold-covered ceiling and a chandelier with 178 floating Swarovski-crystal candles. An elevator takes guests to a private level reserved for the master suite, which showcases a white Scandinavian fox-fur rug and an enormous white-onyx master bath with a 360-degree glass shower.

As part of its underground lair, the estate has a wine cellar, state-of-the-art cinema, spa (with a pink Himalayan salt room, hammam, sauna, subzero ice chamber, and private massage area), and subterranean pool and Jacuzzi.

In addition to the staggering number of amenities, there is a six-car garage with a convenient turntable for ultimate comfort.

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WITH NONSTOP SERVICE BETWEEN HAITI AND ORLANDO WWW.SUNRISEAIRWAYS.NET

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CHIC CHATEAU - KABIK, SOUTH EAST HAITI

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Travel

HIDDEN GEM IN SOUTHEASTERN HAITI KABIK TI-MOUILLAGE RAYMOND-LES-BAIN CYVADIER PLAGE CAYES-JACMEL

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CHIC CHATEAU KABIK, HAITI Christelle P. Pierre christelleppierre@gmail.com

Paradise exists, here and there, all over our Earth. It redefines each discovery, each panorama. It is found in Haiti, near the village of Kabik, 25 minutes from the port city of Jacmel.

Of breathtaking exotic beauty, it is like entering El Dorado.

We arrive at Chic Château, an ecological property, nestled in the calm and green of its environment.

Boasting simplistic architecture, but filled with mystery and the charm of thatched roofs, with decor reminiscent of a sultan’s palace with wooden balustrades around each balcony. There are hammocks, a mini pool, flowers, flowers and more flowers. Art is everywhere: the floor, the walls, the gardens, the view, even breakfast is an art! page 110

This marvelous Chic Château came straight from the imagination of Janet Brubacher, who grew up in Canada, but spent part of her life in East Africa where she learned to adapt to the humid tropical climate.

She finally attached herself to this part of the Caribbean called “The Pearl of the Antilles” – Haiti.

Chic Château has its own farm, to grow and harvest vegetables, spices and fresh fruits for the satisfaction of the sensitive taste buds of their clients.

With an overview that inspires a beautiful painting, we breathe the pure air of nature, we admire the greenery, we enjoy and appreciate the blue of the sky which is not threatened by frost, gray, or the noisy atmosphere of big cities...

Everything a tourist dreams about.

To further the exclusivity of Chic Chateau, only two suites are available. They are eloquently furnished to meet the demands of any traveler who comes to taste the sweet happiness and serenity of Kabik.

Chic Château is a little piece of paradise with boutique appeal for travelers from all over the world.

Surrounded by beautiful beaches Ti-Mouillage, Raymonds-Les-Bains, and Cyvadier Plage, in Kabic, the hotel also serves guests all the culinary specialties of Jacmel. Cuisine in Haiti is a reflection of the cultural atmosphere and artistic soul of the people.

For more information on Chic Chateau, visit https://chichateau.net/.

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MOLD YOUR MIND

FINDING YOUR WHY (Part 1) Joey Velez| joeyavelez@yahoo.com

How are your New Year’s resolutions going? Odds are, not very well.

According to U.S. News, approximately 80 percent of resolutions fail by the second week of February.

Setting and keeping resolutions can be difficult when you don’t know why you are doing it. As with all things in life, it is extremely difficult to do anything when you don’t why you are doing what you are doing. This surpasses beyond resolutions. Whether it is work or career choices, athletics, relationships, or goals, you will not be able to enjoy what you do or follow through on your goals if you don’t understand the why.

Understanding your motivation for what you are doing enhances your focus, directs your attention to relevant tasks, defines who you are or who you want to be, and it re-emphasizes why you do what you do when things aren’t going your way. I have shared in this magazine my time playing high school basketball and how I was voted most inspirational during my two years on the varsity team. At the time, I viewed it as the player who never played but cheered the most! Until recently, I felt as if the award meant nothing. It wasn’t until the end of my graduate program that I understood what those awards meant and why they define my character. I truly believe that I am here to inspire, care for, and motivate any person with whom I cross paths.

Whether it is when I’m working with an athlete, conversations I have with strangers, or having someone become inspired my articles in this magazine, those awards showed me who I am and who I am meant

to be. I am that motivational person who inspires others to perform their best, and sometimes to take chances. This is the reason I studied and work in Sport Psychology; this is why I am a mental performance coach for many high school athletes. Having understood my why, everything is so much more enjoyable.

How do you know what your why is? It may seem like a simple question, but it takes time and thought. In order to find your why, think about some of these questions:

What do I want?

Why do I want this?

What makes me happy?

How do I want to be remembered?

What makes me go?

What do I find meaningful?

You don’t have to answer all of these, but use them to get your mind thinking about why you do what you do. Try to think of any thoughts, feelings, people, words, or images that come to mind when you answer these questions and see if you can come up with a phrase that states why you do what you do.

This can be your mission statement.

Mine is “To care for, to motivate, and to inspire others to give it their all and enjoy their sporting experiences”.

Once you understand why you work in the field that you do (or will), once you understand why you want to accomplish your goals, once you understand why you do you what you do, everything will become more enjoyable, even the mundane tasks we participate in on a daily basis.

Understanding your why gives you purpose, and it gives you direction. I challenge you to find your why as we will incorporate this into next month’s article.

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EXPLOSIVE STRENGTH IS A MUST IN ATHLETICS Mark Wine BA; CSCS; USAW; NASM PT, PES, CES

Sports require maximal amounts of speed, agility, endurance, power and muscular strength.

Successful programs are correlated with a strength and conditioning coach’s ability to manipulate training program variables.

These variables are, but not limited to reps, loads, sets, rest, number of exercises, exercise type and the rate of force applied to each power lift.

Athletics require high rates of force development, which is the maximum force and the time it takes to reach maximum force through muscular contractions. Rate of force development can also be coined “explosive strength.”

What is Explosive strength?

Explosive strength is when a basketball player jumps for a rebound or to dunk. Or when a soccer player jumps up for a header or sprints for a 50/50 ball. Or when a volleyball player jumps up to the net to block or spike the ball. Or when a polo player reacts, stops and re-accelerates in fluidity with the horse. During these movements explosive strength is applied through a strong counter movement (eccentric application of force) before transfer energy into a concentric muscular action. It is through this application of force, post-counter movement, that the greatest level of explosive strength is utilized (concentric muscular action). page 120

Athletes who have greater levels of explosive strength / power will typically elevate higher and sprint faster, with all other variables held constant.

Explosive strength utilized during jumping, for nearly all sports, often tracks through nearly the same movement pattern. First, the legs become loaded during the counter movement as the knees and hips slightly flex. Second, the jump leg(s) become fully extended, along with the hips (i.e. triple extension), as the body is propelled (concentric muscular action) into the air. Third, the body impacts the ground during landing and the muscles and tendons involved are stretched and then shortened. In consequence, storage of elastic energy, in both the muscles and tendons, allow for another concentric muscular action to occur due to the neural response by the mechanical stretch stimulus. This counter movement allows for increased concentric capabilities because it activates this mechanical stretch stimulus known as the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC).

The SSC is active in nearly all athletic movements and is directly related to increased jump height and faster speeds. Elite sprinters show greater SSC capabilities. In a sport like volleyball or basketball, where it is vital for an athlete to be able to out jump their competition, the SSC is crucial in the athlete’s performance. An analysis of a spike in volleyball highlights the athlete’s activation of the SSC in motion. As the athlete prepares for flight, he or she begins by loading the leg through a counter movement.

The counter movement slightly flexes

the knees, ankles and hips thus storing energy in the tendons and muscles involved. The athlete re-accelerates (concentric muscular action) by utilizing the stored energy (SSC). This counter movement happens quickly; in fact, the quicker it happens typically the higher the athlete jumps.

Explosive strength depends on overall muscular coordination between the agonists, antagonists, and synergists. This total body coordination is trainable and must be trained through compound multi-joint movements, as well as core / neurological training. Olympic weightlifting is one of the longest standing training methods utilized by strength and conditioning coaches. No matter what style of training you go with explosive strength / power training results in superior athletic performance and reduced injury risks.

Here are some examples of how to train for power / explosive strength…

Upper Body Lifting: bench, military press, pull ups, one arm bench, etc… generally 4-6 sets of 3-6 repetitions is the prescription to increase strength and power. Maximal strength utilizes 1-2 repetitions with 95-100% 1RM. Explosive strength or power utilizes 4-6 repetitions with loads of 65-75%; the load reduction allows for greater explosiveness.

Both should be incorporated into a well rounded program. It is worth noting that the upper body responds favorably to high volumes.

Lower Body Lifting: squats, Bulgarian squats, dead lifts, glute-ham raises, etc… again, as with upper body, 4-6 sets of 3-6 repeti-

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tions for strength and power. It is important to note that hamstrings are a fast twitch muscle and should be trained with heavier loads, lower repetitions and more sets. As well, full range of motion (ROM) squats have shown to be superior over parallel squats in preventing injuries, increasing vertical jumping and speed; the main reason relates to the activation of the glute muscles

(3). It is worth noting that the lower body responds favorably to moderate volumes, especially experienced lifters or athlete’s in-season.

Olympic Weightlifting: clean, jerk, snatch and variations… the first exercises to be classified as “functional” because of their total body coordination and requirement of the triple extension. All explosive athletic movements involve the

triple extension. Carefully program in one repetition max training as well as 3-5 repetition training. The decreased load required for 3-5 repetitions allows for speed and acceleration training. It is important all Olympics are done inside of a program that involves and accounts for training age, progressions, de-loading, complexes and most importantly flexibility / mobility training.

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