Myopia Polo 2018

since 1888 / myopiapolo.org

2018 myopia polo magazine

J BARRETT

S T A R T S

H ER E

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Hamilton

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3 BR, 3 BA, 10.11 acres Offered at $1,400,000 Holly Fabyan

6 BR, 5F/2H BA, 14.39 acres Offered at $4,500,000 Emily McPherson

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4 / captain’s letter 68 / the rules 72 / spotlight: the millers

contents

2018 myopia polo magazine

features

agenda

style

myopia

48 / sundays at myopia

8 / 2018 Schedule

24 / dining out

36 / myopia polo club

Every weekend at Myopia Polo offers a spectacle of sport, tradition and culture. by brion o’connor 56 / the path to gibney field

Myopia Polo Coaching League shows players the way to the next level. by bill burke

62 / along for the ride!

A visual chronicle of the most thrilling moments of Myopia’s 2017 season. photographs by andrew katsampes

2 myopia polo 2018

10 / the players

A rundown of the Myopia Polo players. plus Polo 101. 18 / gear

Area restaurants hit the spot for a pre- or post-match meal. 26 / food & drink

Tailgating essentials.

A look at some of the gear you’ll see polo players, and their mounts, wearing in today’s match.

28 / Jewelry

20 / Youth polo

These party-ready ensembles will up your game.

The National Youth Tournament Series. 22 / equine medicine

Riders, referees and enthusiasts alike keep a close eye on the welfare of Myopia’s polo ponies.

Accessorize yourself with a sparkly brooch. 30 / fashion

32 / scene

Myopia Polo personalities snapped out and about. 34 / instagram

Hasthtag it: #myopiapolo.

Member enthusiasm keeps the country’s oldest polo club thriving after 130 years. 40 / Equine history

The Wenham Museum chronicles equestrian history. 42 / u.s. polo association

The history of the United States Polo Association. 44 / myopia hunt club

Myopia Hunt is a blend of athleticism and tradition.

ON THE COVER Terri Campbell, a regular at Myopia as well as the sponsor of the Folly Fields Polo Team, photographed on April 17, 2018. Photograph by Adam DeTour

photographs, from left, adam detour; andrew katsampes; glenn scott; bob packert

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this summer marks the 130th season of polo on myopia’s gibney field—a remarkable tradition and one that we are pleased to share with you, our supporters and spectators every Sunday from early June to late September. This summer, we have an active season of polo planned—including national tournaments such as the Chairman’s Cup in July and the Forbes Cup in August. As we do every summer, we will host tournaments named in honor of some of our most historic Myopia equestrian families such as Ayer, Poor, Tuckerman and Little. I am pleased to report that Kim Maguire, who has supervised our operations for the past three summers, is continuing as our manager, responsible for overseeing all polo activity. Myopia Polo would not be as vibrant and successful without the efforts of our dedicated staff and volunteers. I’d like to thank of our volunteer leadership which includes Nick Snow and Dave Strouss—long-time Myopia polo players and committee members as well as Denny Ryus who oversees all of our marketing, our treasurer, Stephen Willet, and committee members Terri Campbell and Jackie Miller. We encourage you to follow Myopia Polo throughout the season. Updates on schedules, games and lessons are on our website, myopiapolo.org, or by calling 978-468POLO. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter. Best wishes,

Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, captain/myopia polo

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Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, Captain of Polo Kim Maguire, Polo Manager & Equine Welfare Committee Chairman Nicholas B. Snow, USPA Northeastern Circuit Lieutenant Governor & Polo Committee Member David Strouss, USPA Delegate & Tournament Committee Representative Stephen L. Willett, Treasurer Peter Poor, Official Announcer & Tournament Committee Representative Cathy Taylor, Corporate Sponsorships Terri Campbell, Polo Committee & Equine Welfare Committee Bill Coke, Polo Committee Member Kurt Miller, Polo Committee Member Michael D. Ryus, Marketing and Design Director website

myopiapolo.org facebook & twitter

Myopia Polo

President/Publisher

Sharron McCarthy group Advertising Sales DIRECTOR

Kimberly Lencki 603-413-5154, klencki@mcleancommunications.com Advertising Sales Representatives

Talman Hauch 617-921-7033, talhauch@gmail.com SALES SUPPORT MANAGER

Joshua Klein Creative Director

John Goodwin CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR

Jodie Hall Office Manager

Mista McDonnell Proofreader

Liisa Rajala subscriptions

For additional copies or subscription customer service, email hrood@mcleancommunications.com published by

McLean Communications, Custom Publishing A Division of Yankee Publishing, Inc.; Dublin, NH 150 Dow Street, Manchester, NH 03101 603-624-1442, mcleancommunications.com

A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF YANKEE PUBLISHING INC. POLO magazine is published for Myopia Polo by McLean Communications. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the magazine; McLean Communications is not responsible for errors or omissions. © Copyright 2018, McLean Communications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of McLean Communications is prohibited.

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978.865.1168

Welcome to the 2018 Season Match time is 3 p.m. on Sundays on Gibney Field. Gates open at 1:30 p.m. schedule subject to change

jun 3 Opening Day

Joseph Poor/ Stan Bradford Cup jun 10 C.G. Rice Cup jun 17 Neil Ayer Cup jun 24 Agassiz Club Cup 0 Goal jul 1 USPA East Coast

Women’s Open Final 14-20 Goal jul 7 USPA NYTS Qualifier jul 8 USPA NYTS Qualifier jul 8 Cyril Harrison Cup 8 Goal jul 15 Cyril Harrison Cup 8 Goal Finals jul 22 USPA Chairman’s Cup 8-12 Goal jul 28 Lester Crossman Cup 2 Goal Finals jul 28 Myopia Polo Ball jul 28 USPA Chairman’s Cup 8-12 Goal Finals aug 5

W. Cameron Forbes Cup 6 Goal aug 12 W. Cameron Forbes Cup 6 Goal Finals aug 18 Tuckerman Cup 4 Goal Finals aug 19 USPA Governor’s Cup 6 Goal aug 26 USPA Governor’s Cup 6 Goal Finals

sep 2 Labor Day Cup sep 9

Montecristo Cup Windrush Cup sep 23 The Atlantic Cup: Harvard, Oxford, Yale, Cambridge sep 30 Last Chukker Cup sep 16

8 myopia polo 2018

photograph by andrew katsampes

Rob Karosis Photography

re s i d e nti a l co m m e rc i a l i nter i o r d es i gn

ag e n da

the players

Polo Patrons and Captains The people who make polo at Myopia possible.

barrett coke

erica L. ames

franz colloredomansfeld

terri campbell

Franz ColloredoMansfeld Captain Franz grew up riding

and hunting with Myopia. He has won the Myopia Hunter Trials numerous times. Over the past decade, he has enjoyed playing polo with his children. He is the Captain of Myopia Polo and the sponsor of the Black Oak Polo team. Franz runs an international real estate investment firm based in Boston. A rated

Erica L. Ames Erica has been an avid horseback rider for most of her life, but discovered polo in 2013, when she took beginner polo lessons at Stage Hill Polo. Since then, she has become actively involved in Myopia Coaching League and is a huge supporter of all aspects of the sport. As Myopia’s director of corporate sponsorships, Erica is passionate about sharing the unique Myopia experience with new and returning patrons alike.

terri campbell Terri is now a regular at Myopia, after playing in Newport for 10 years. The sponsor of

10 myopia polo 2018

bill coke

hamilton coke

2018 polo patrons

carlos coles

John Adams, Erica Ames, Neil Ayer, William Ayer, Bryn Barror, Doralynne Bibby, Mary & Michael Blair, John Bos, Michael Bucci, Stephen Burr, Terri Campbell, Benjamin Collins, Susanna Colloredo-Mansfeld, Sandra Dunstan, MaryAnn Esdaile, Scott Fabyan, Winnie Gray, Britt Hultgren, Myopia Hunt, Patricia Johnstone, Josh Lerner, Franz Colloredo Mansfeld, William Meaney, Kurt Miller, Allison O’Neil, Anthony Pearson, Michael Pippins, Donald Pitman, Scott and Amanda Roberts, Carlos Riva, Evan Rochman, MD, Stacey Scott, David Strouss, Thomas Sutro Whidden, Robert Wilkinson

the Folly Fields Polo Team, she has played in tournaments in Chile, Ireland and South Africa, and competes at Gulfstream Polo Club in Florida in the winter. When she’s not with the ponies, she is a portfolio manager in Boston. -1 goal

for his powerful and spirited defensive play. He is thrilled to play with his sons, Hamilton and Barrett. A managing director with JP Morgan, Bill lives in Topsfield with his wife, Wendy, and sons Hamilton and Barrett. A rated

Barrett Coke

An engaged, and skilled player on his family’s Chanticleer Farm Polo Team, Hamilton is a Computer Engineering student at Santa Clara University Engineering School in Silicon Valley, CA. Hamilton is happiest when freestyle skiing, mountain biking, surfing, playing rugby, lacrosse and programming the next big app. A rated

A Myopia player since the age of 12, Barrett, 21, is passionate about the sport. Barrett was a three-time all-star National Youth Polo Player, and in 2015 he went on to win the National Youth Polo Championships in Denver, CO, playing on the Northeast regional team. Barrett plays for the Coke family’s Chanticleer Farm Polo Team. He loves competing alongside his father and brother. An avid sports enthusiast, Barrett plays soccer, squash, lacrosse and loves freestyle skiing. Barrett graduated from Brooks School in North Andover, MA. 1 goal

Bill Coke An intense and competitive athlete, Bill has played polo at Myopia for more than 20 years. The sponsor of the Chanticleer Farm Polo Team, Bill is known

Hamilton Coke

Carlos Coles A Wenham resident who has played polo for more than 36 years, Carlos learned the game from his father Charlie—a Myopia legend. A big hitter and very competitive player, he plays with speed and abandon. After playing for multiple sponsors at Gulfstream in Florida, Wellington, Vero Beach and Ocala during the winter months, Carlos rededicated his efforts to the continued growth

All tournament photographs by andrew katsampes

captains of myopia polo, past and present Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld

2011 (co-captain)–present W. Albert Ellis 2009–2010, 2011 (co-captain) Lyle Graham 2001–2008 Michael S. Fawcett 1996–2000 Neil St. John Raymond 1986–1996 Robert A. Wilkinson 1981–1983 Donald V. Little 1968–1981, 1983–1986 Neil R. Ayer 1960–1967 Forrester A. Clark 1937–1940, 1946–1959 Fredrick H. Prince, Jr. 1924–1925 Fredrick Ayer 1921–1923, 1929–1936, 1941–1945 Neil W. Rice 1920 Henry P. McKean, Jr. 1919 Charles G. Rice 1918 James H. Proctor 1917 Q.A. Shaw McKean 1916, 1927–1928 Quincy A. Shaw II 1914 Dudley P. Rogers 1908–1912, 1915, 1926 F. Blackwood Fay 1902–1903, 1907, 1913 Rodolphe L. Agassiz 1893–1901, 1904–1906 R. M. Appleton 1891–1892

neil ayer Cup june 18, 2017 Stage Hill def. Folly Fields 6-5

Polo 101

annie colloredomansfeld

seppi colloredomansfeld

justin e. daniels

albert ellis

johann colloredomansfeld

simon colloredomansfeld

francisco “pancho” eddy

whitney ellis

rules of the game and a few other basics.

glossary Approach Shot: A long shot taken to get the ball close to the opponent’s goal. Back shot: When a player hits the ball backwards, can be played on both the nearside and the offside. Boards: Wooden barriers placed alongside a polo field to keep the ball in the playing area. Bump: When two riders come into contact with each other, with the objective of knocking or pushing the other rider off the line of the ball so they are unable to hit it. Also called a ride-off. Center line: Middle of field where the ball is thrown in after each goal. Crossing: When one rider cuts across another player’s right of way. Cut shot: When a player makes a stroke that is at an angle to the direction in which he or she is riding. Divot Stomp: A halftime tradition in which spectators enter the field to stomp divots made by the horses back into the ground. Drive: A player hitting the ball either forward or backward along the same parallel line the horse is taking. Forehand: When a player hits the ball forward, can be played on both the nearside and the offside. Free Hit: For certain rule violations, a player will be allowed a free and uncontested hit at the ball. Goal: When the ball crosses between the two goal posts, resulting in a score. Hook: A defensive tactic used when a player makes contact with an offensive player’s mallet before it hits the ball. Knock In (a.k.a. Hit In): When the offensive team hits the ball »

agassiz club cub June 25, 2017 Myopia def. Del Rancho 3-1

of Myopia Polo. His work with younger generations helps feed Myopia polo and the USPA with new sponsors. His 13-year-old daughter, Padan, is an aspiring equestrian. 1 goal (out) / 2 goals (arena)

Annie ColloredoMansfeld Annie is a recent graduate of the Groton School where she was a varsity cross-country runner and rower. She is an accomplished young rider and has competed in three phase events in Massachusetts and Vermont. The past few summers she has been playing with her family and has joined the junior program at Myopia. B rated

Johann ColloredoMansfeld Johann is a graduate of Harvard University, where he was captain of the Harvard Polo Team. Over the past five years, Johann has played in tournaments in China, Italy and France. In 2013, he was selected for the U19 National Championship Tournament Team for the Northeast. Johann plays for the Black Oak and Myopia Teams. 1 goal

Seppi ColloredoMansfeld Seppi grew up riding and playing polo with Myopia. Seppi is a former three-year

captain of the men’s Yale Polo Team. He has played in tournaments throughout the Northeast and in England on historic Guards Field at Windsor. Seppi was also a rower and a member of the Yale Lightweight Crew Team. Seppi now lives in New York City and works in the real estate development business. 1 goal

justin e. daniels

Simon ColloredoMansfeld

landen e. daniels

Simon is a rising senior at the University of Virginia where he plays on the polo team at one of the country’s top rated college programs. In 2013, Simon was selected for the U19 National Tournament Team for the Northeast. A naturally talented horseman, Simon is a graduate of the junior polo program at Myopia and plays for Black Oak and Myopia. 1 goal

benji e. daniels A summer resident of Ipswich, Benji, 18, played youth polo in Wellington on the Pony Express Polo team under the watchful eye of Tomas Goti and Julian deLusaretta. Benji is calm, cool and collected on the field, where he has continuously improved his ability to take the man and hit a solid backhander. His ball control and smooth swing seem to improve with each tournament he plays. 1.5 goals

A summer resident of Ipswich, Justin, 19, has been playing polo for more than eight years, and is an excellent rider with a hard-hitting sense of urgency on the field. Justin was selected to play on the first-ever USPA National Youth Tournament for the winning Florida team in 2013. 2 goals

Landen, 15, is the youngest of six polo-playing brothers. He has made quite a name for himself among the polo community in Wellington, FL. An accomplished soccer player, Landen plays travel soccer when he is not on a horse. Playing polo for eight years (two years without a mallet) Landen has developed a keen understanding of where to be on the polo field—both defending as well as making key offensive plays. His hitting is surprisingly accurate. Landen’s potential as a polo player is demonstrated every time he plays competitively in kids’ polo or in six goal competition matched against an opposing young player. A rated

Francisco “Pancho” Eddy An Argentina native, Pancho spent summer holidays flyfishing in San Martin de los

2018 myopia polo 11

ag e n da

scott fabyan

the players

jonathan graham

Augustus “Augie” Grotnik

Jacek “yaz” K. grotnik

lyle graham

grace grotnik

patricia johnstone

Andes, where he met Chuck Elmes of Blue Sky Polo Club, a meeting that lead to a job playing polo in the U.S. In addition to Myopia, where he plays with Rick Salter, Pancho has played in Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Florida. He consistently finds success at Myopia and has captured every major tournament at the club over the past five years, thanks to his accurate passing and shots on goal. 4 goals

excited about whacking the ball around at Myopia this summer.

Albert Ellis

Scott Fabyan

An experienced horseman, Albert grew up hunting and three-day-event riding at Myopia before becoming a polo player. Albert served as polo captain from 2007-2011 and has been a longtime fixture on the Myopia fields. He lives in Gloucester with his wife, Anne-Seymour, and their three daughters, Isabella, Caroline and Jane. 1 goal

Scott is an avid outdoorsman, skier and licensed Captain with the U.S. Coast Guard. He is in second season of polo, playing in both the Winter Arena and Myopia Coaching Leagues. He owns Kinsman Farm in Ipswich and is a portfolio manager in Boston.

John Ellis John is new to the sport of polo but brings a wealth of equestrian experience to the playing field. He resides in Gloucester with his son, Maverick, and is

12 myopia polo 2018

B rated

Whitney Ellis Whitney will be returning to the fields of Myopia this summer. He has come back to his roots here on the North Shore after stints in Ireland, getting his Master’s degree in English, and in New York, pursuing journalistic and literary endeavors. 2 goals

Jonathan Graham Having started polo in Myopia’s junior program, Jon has played on his father Lyle’s Wintercreek team, captained the Colorado State University team, and played professionally in Aspen and on the East

Coast. One of the biggest hitters at Myopia, Jon is always a threat to score from the middle of the game. 2 goals

Lyle Graham A former Myopia captain, Lyle has been an active player for the last 35 years (28 seasons at Myopia) on the family’s Winter Creek team and played competitively at a 5-goal USPA handicap. Taking a sabbatical from horses and polo, Lyle focuses on family activities, farm projects, boating and motorcycling. He lives in Rowley with his wife, Donna, and sons, Jon and Ian.

Augustus “Augie” Grotnik Augie is Myopia’s newest junior player. He started playing polo at the end of 2017 and has one season under his belt with the Stage Hill and Myopia Interscholastic Polo Team. At 14 years old, he has played polo on grass and in the arena in Arizona, Florida and locally in New England. Augie attends Ipswich High School and enjoys skiing and soccer. B (out) / B (arena)

Polo 101, cont. over the back line wide of goal. The defending team then plays the ball from the point at which it went over the back line. Line of the Ball: The path along which the ball travels after a hit, this line extends beyond the ball as well. line judge: Assists the umpires by signaling whether the ball went between or outside the goal posts. Neck Shot/Tail Shot: The former is played under the horse’s neck; the latter, beneath and behind the tail. Offside/Nearside: When seated on a horse, the offside refers to the player’s right side, and the nearside refers to his or her left side. Tack Time: Stop in play called by umpire if a player’s tack is broken. Tailgating: One of the most celebrated polo pastimes, complete with picnic baskets, gourmet snacks, and plenty of beverages. Throw-in: When an umpire bowls the ball between teams to start play.

positions A polo match pits two teams of four against each other. The players on each team are numbered 1 through 4, with each number representing a general role as follows: 1. Goal Scorer. This player pushes forward aggressively and seeks openings into which teammates can hit. This player also marks the opposing team’s number 4, or Back. 2. Energizer. The Energizer is always involved in play while quarterbacking the offense and neutralizing the opponent’s top player. 3. Field Captain. The Field Captain typically is the best player on the team and directs the flow of the game. 4. Defender. The Defender plays at the back of the game to prevent the other team from scoring.

cyril harrison cup July 9, 2017 Longmeadow def. Folly fields 10-9

handicap descriptions.

kimberly maguire

max mehm

kurt miller

mike noll

bob mehm

olivia mehm

reed miller

marcos onetto

Every player on the field carries a handicap from -2 to 10 goals based on his or her skill level and horsemanship, as determined by a national handicap committee. A handicap of 10 represents the top of the game.

the rules Object of the Game. The objec-

tive of the game is simple: Score as many goals as possible and win by outscoring the opposing team. Playing the Game. Because polo involves horses that weigh thousands of pounds, all moving at high speeds toward the same ball, the concept of “right of way” is the most important concept in the game of polo and is designed to keep the game safe for both horse and rider. Right of Way and Riding Off.

The rider who is following the ball on its exact line, or who has the least angle to reach the ball and is taking it on the offside without committing a foul, has the right of way. A rider can be ridden off the ball. Riding off is also allowed even if the other player is not playing the ball. But riding off is not allowed if the rider comes in to the other rider at a dangerous angle. When one rider rides off another, he or she is not allowed to hit, strike, or push off with the hand, forearm, elbow, or head, but he or she is allowed to push off with the upper arm. A rider is not allowed to grab another player, their equipment, or their horse. A rider is not allowed to weave back and forth in front of another rider, thus forcing the other rider to change the speed at which he or she is riding. Crossing. It is cause for a foul » should a rider cross another uspa chairman’s 8-12 goal july 21, 2017 Del Rancho/Black Oak def. King’s Row Coffee 10-8

grace ellen grotnik Grace is one of Myopia’s junior players. She started playing polo at 10 years old and entered her first tournament at 13. Currently 16 years old, she has played polo on grass, in the arena, and on snow. Grace was presented the Dr. Billy Linfoot Award and named the Most-Improved Club Player at Myopia in 2016. She plays on the Myopia Interscholastic Varsity Team and was awarded the Sportsmanship Award in 2017 and All Star in 2018 at the USPA Preliminary Regionals and at the BTC NYTS in Arizona. She has won several medium goal women’s tournaments including the 14-Goal Women’s NE Arena Challenge, the 10-Goal Meadowbrook Women’s Cup, and the 2017 Polish Women’s Open. Grace attends Ipswich High School and enjoys skiing, soccer and tennis. B (OUT) / A (ARENA, WOMEN’S) / A (OUT) / +2 (ARENA)

Jacek “Yaz” K. Grotnik Yaz started playing polo after a Sunday visit to Gibney Field over 25 years ago and has since played across the U.S. and internationally in various low and medium goal tournaments up the 14 goal level. He was captain of the Polish National Polo Team at the 8th Manipur International Tournament in

India and represented the USA Men’s Team in their win of the 2015 Bukovina Polo Snow Masters. In 2016, his team won the USPA Border Circuit Amateur Cup. He lives at Husaria Farm in Ipswich and is a patron of Myopia Polo and the Husaria Polo Team. Yaz is the team advisor to the Stage Hill and Myopia Interscholastic Polo Teams and a USPA Certified Umpire. A (Out) / +2 (Arena)

Bob Mehm

Patricia Johnstone

Max Mehm

Patricia has had a lifelong passion for horses which spurred a love for polo three years ago via Stage Hill Polo. Now she and her husband, Gary, owners of Stones Throw Farm in Ipswich, are enthusiastic supports of all aspects of the game. She is actively involved in the Myopia Coaching League, Winter Arena League and a supporter of the Myopia Polo Interscholastic Team.

kimberly maguire Kimberly started her polo career in 1996 as Byfield Polo’s first youth player. After a short hiatus from polo to attend university, she has returned to Myopia for her fourth year. Kimberly, manager of polo at Myopia, has achieved a USPA Level 1 Certified Polo Instructor and enjoys playing and coaching with the Myopia Coaching League. a rated

Bob is a former 3-goal player and is in his 35th season of polo. He has played in major cups in Dubai, Thailand, Switzerland, the UK, Nepal, the Caribbean and at Myopia. He lives in Geneva, Switzerland, where he plays at the Vetey Polo Club, and looks forward to competing this summer and playing with his children, Max and Olivia. 1 goal

This year marks Max’s third season at Myopia. Max has played the Coach’s League on Harvard horses and competed in the NYTS tournament. Max studies at the Fessenden School in Newton, where he competes in soccer, squash and rowing. B rated

Olivia Mehm Olivia has played several seasons at Myopia Polo as a junior player and will join the junior program after her warmup in June at her home club in Geneva. Olivia studied at Deerfield Academy, where she founded an interscholastic polo team. She competed on the cross-country, squash and tennis teams. B rated

Kurt Miller A veteran player and horseman at Myopia, Kurt brings steady

2018 myopia polo 13

ag e n da

bryan parrott

alyson poor

estanislao “estani” puch

thomas rizzo

peter poor

neil “jed” raymond, jr.

amanda roberts

play and formidable competition to the game. During the winter, he often plays in Chile, where many of his horses are from. Kurt was inspired to follow in his father’s footsteps—who also played at Myopia. This summer, Kurt looks for-ward to another year playing at Myopia and joining forces with his son Reed, for a fourth season, on their Longmeadow Team. Kurt’s wife, Jackie is actively involved in planning events for the club. They live with their children in Hamilton. 0 goals

reed miller Reed is a third generation Myopia Polo player. He grew up around the Myopia Polo fields, foot mallet in hand, watching his father, Kurt, play, as his grandfather played before him. He began playing the sport with Myopia’s Junior Program and Stage Hill Polo. Then he joined forces with his father on their Longmeadow Team, enjoying many winning games and tournaments together. He also participates in the USPA National Youth Tournament Series. During

14 myopia polo 2018

the players

the winter he competes on the USPA Interscholastic Team, Myopia/Stage Hill. Reed has been honored as a Most Improved Myopia Club Player 2016 and USPA Interscholastic All-Star NE Premlims at Yale 2017. He also travels to South America to play polo. b rated

mike noll A lifelong competitive athlete, Mike’s passion for horses began at an early age. His family-owned thoroughbred racehorses in Pennsylvania and Florida. Mike is the founder and CEO of Hamilton Capital Partners, a Boston-based private equity firm. B rated

marcos onetto Marcos has been playing here at Myopia for the past three seasons. Rated at 4 goals, Marcos is a speed demon on the field with a fast group of horses. 4 goals

Bryan Parrott Bryan Parrott, DVM, owner of Parrott Equine Associates, LLC, has been practicing equine veterinary medicine for

31 years. Bryan has been playing polo for 21 years. As co-founder of the Myopia Equine Welfare Committee, Bryan’s mission is the health and well-being of the horses. 1 goal

Alyson Poor Alyson’s career with animals started at age seven, when she began riding and playing polo at her father’s polo school in Hamilton. Alyson graduated with a degree in animal science from the University of Kentucky, where she also played on the polo team. 0 goals

Peter Poor Peter Poor has played polo at Myopia for 56 years, and his two daughters also play. Peter runs Stage Hill Polo School in Newbury and is the Northeast Region Governor for the USPA. He has been a central figure at Myopia in many capacities and is the announcer of Sunday games. 0 goals

Estanislao “Estani” Puch With a handicap of 3 in Argentina and 2 in the U.S.,

Polo 101, cont. rider in the right of way if they come close enough to be dangerous, or cause a rider and horse to slow up. A rider in possession of the ball can’t be crossed. Hooking Sticks. A rider is allowed to hook another rider’s stick, as long as he or she and the ball are on the same side of the opponent’s horse and the rider is about to hit the ball. A rider is allowed to hook another rider’s stick if he or she is directly behind an opponent, but the stick must be below the level of the opposing rider’s shoulder. Stick Misuse. 1) A rider may not reach across or under an opposing rider’s horse to hit. 2) A player is not allowed to use a stick in an unsafe way or in a way that obstructs or hinders another rider or horse. 3) A rider is not allowed to hit the legs of an opposing player’s horse. Ball Out of Play. A ball is out of play when: 1) It is hit over the boards or sidelines. 2) The ball is hit over the back line by the opposing team. Stoppage of Play. An umpire will stop play if: 1) A rider is hurt or a horse is injured. 2) A rider loses his or her helmet, provided that no team will gain from a stoppage of play. 3) A horse’s equipment becomes damaged, presenting potential danger to other horses or riders. (Play is not stopped if a rider falls off his or her horse and is uninjured.) Fouls and Penalties. Umpires decide the severity of fouls and which penalties are appropriate. Therefore, one particular foul does not have a specific penalty associated with it. Below are penalties listed in the order of their severity. Team captains are the only players who can discuss issues that arise during a game with an umpire.

Forbes Cup 8-goal tournament aug. 13, 2016 Del Ranch/Black Oak def. Longmeadow 11-10

Penalties. 1) A goal awarded

to the team that has been fouled. Given for the most dangerous fouls. 2) A free hit given to the fouled team, taken from 30 yards from the front of the goal. Given for dangerous fouls. 3) A free hit given to the fouled team, taken from 40 yards from the front of the goal. Given for less dangerous fouls. 4) A free hit given to the fouled team, taken from 60 yards out. Given for moderate fouls. 5) A free hit for the fouled team, taken from where the foul occurred. This penalty is given for mild fouls. 6) Same as above, but the free hit is taken from the center of the field. 7) A 60-yard hit taken opposite from where the ball crossed over the back line; this is given for a defender hitting the ball over their back line.

the myopia polo teams Black Oak: The family team of the Colloredo-Mansfelds, Black Oak is anchored by Filipe Viana and a rotating roster of family members. Blackburn Sunset: The Berube family team played competitively at Myopia last season. Chanticleer: The Coke family team has competed successfully since the 1990s at Myopia and at Aiken. Del Rancho: Dave Strouss’s team has successfully competed at every level of Myopia Polo, including winning the 12-goal championship. Giddy Up: Relatively new to Myopia, Terri Campbell’s team is becoming a force to be reckoned with. EFG: Bob Mehm’s team and employer, EFG has sponsored teams around the globe—and now, at Myopia. »

uspa governor’s 8-goal Cup aug. 20, 2017 Longmeadow def. Pony Up/Del Rancho 6-5

steve rudolph

C.B. scherer

nick snow

rob wilkinson

rick salter

crocker snow, jr.

dave strouss

federico wulff

Estanislao has played at Myopia for the last seven years. He divides his time between the U.S. and Argentina, where he runs El Rincon del Polo Club & School outside Buenos Aries in the winter months. 2 goals

Neil “Jed” St. John Raymond, Jr. Jed grew up playing polo with his dad, former Myopia captain Ted Raymond, for Maplecroft Farms, and has played in the U.S., Argentina and the UK. Jed is a graduate of Middlebury College and Harvard Graduate School of Design. A gifted athlete, he excelled in lacrosse, which he played professionally after graduation. 2 goals

thomas rizzo Tom has been playing polo for five years and riding for seven. He is looking forward to playing in the Myopia Coaching League again this year. He is an engineer by day and a pilot and sailor by weekend. b rated / myopia coaching league

Amanda roberts Myopia’s highest handicapped woman, Amanda is an avid athlete from Ipswich. A Merrimack College graduate, she plays for Stage Hill as well as at Myopia. Rated A.5

Steve Rudolph In his sixth season at Myopia Polo, Steve is a lifelong New Englander, residing in Newburyport with his wife, Sarah. When not playing polo, Steve is a strategy consultant to telecommunications and media companies in the U.S. and Latin America. B rated

Rick Salter Rick started playing polo at Myopia in 2001. He plays nearly year-round, as he owns a farm in Aiken, S.C., and plays in Florida during the winters and Argentina in the fall. Rated B.5

C.B. Scherer C.B. joined Team USPA in 2010 and now works in finance in Boston, but continues his passion for polo and teaching at Myopia. A third generation polo player from Florida, C.B. played for the UVA squad and was a three time Men’s National Intercollegiate Champion. In 2012, he was a finalist at the East Coast Open on the Airstream Polo Team, a Harrison Cup winner and MVP, and winner of the Eduardo Moore 12-goal. 2 goals

Crocker Snow, Jr. Myopia’s senior polo veteran, Crocker started playing in college during the rebirth of polo at Myopia in the early 1960s and has played ever since,

broken only by years living abroad. Crocker has played in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and South America. Once rated at 4 goals, he now typically plays the back position and is co-coach of Harvard’s polo team. 1 goal

Nick Snow The highest-rated home-grown player at Myopia, Nick played with his father and older brothers as a teen and later captained Harvard’s polo team. A big hitter and good horseman, Nick was named to Team USPA and represented the U.S. in the FIP World Championships in Argentina. 4 goals

Dave Strouss A regular at Myopia since 1994, Dave learned the game from his father, Bud. His team, Del Rancho, has successfully competed at every level of Myopia Polo, including winning the 12-goal championship. Myopia’s delegate to the USPA, Dave lives in Ipswich with his wife, Tracy, and two daughters. rated a

Rob wilkinson Rob, a former captain of Myopia Polo, was an active player at Myopia for more than 25 years. He has been an enthusiastic rider for many years and enjoys riding and fox hunting with the

2018 myopia polo 15

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the players

Polo 101, cont. Firehouse Subs: Richard Salter’s

James Grayken

Chloe Irvine

William Grayken

Beatrice Pforr

Myopia Polo Interscholastic League

philip zocco

Stephen Burr

Myopia Hunt. Rob is president of New England Trust Services and lives in Topsfield with his wife, Darlyn.

Federico Wulff Federico grew up playing Polo in Buenos Aires and is a knowledgeable tactician of the sport. He has made Myopia Polo his summer home for the past several seasons and can usually be seen playing for the Longmeadow Polo Team. Federico works to improve the level of beginner and intermediate players of our Myopia Polo Coaching League. Off the field, Federico is the tournament manager and can be found running the tournaments played at Myopia. 3 goals

Philip Zocco Recipient of Myopia Polo’s 2015 most improved player and sponsor of Team Georgetown Door & Window, Philip returns for his ninth season at Myopia. His natural athletic abilities, team sport presence and a love for horses have contributed to raising his level of play and overall passion for the sport of polo. A rated

16 myopia polo 2018

Myopia Polo Interscholastic League

stephen burr Introduced to polo five summers ago, Stephen, 19, instantly fell in love with the sport. A longtime soccer player who captained a division one club team, he was taken with how similar polo and soccer can be—minus the horse. He currently attends Northeastern University.

james grayken James is 15 years old and has been playing polo for just over three years. He started his polo career at a club just outside London. He now is an active participant of Myopia Polo, playing in the junior program and with the Stage Hill/Myopia Interscholastic Polo Team. James is a competitive player who is eager to learn, and plans to play polo through college and for the rest of his life.

william grayken William’s polo career began approximately three years ago. At 11-years-old, he is the youngest player on the Stage

Hill/Myopia Interscholastic Polo Team. Prior to polo he had been riding for almost three years. His family often went to see polo. As he watched, he fell in love with the fast-paced and exciting game. William hopes to play this magnificent game for the rest of his life.

chloe irvine Chloe started playing polo with Peter Poor at Stage Hill Polo and is now riding with the USPA Interscholastic Stage Hill/ Myopia team and the Myopia Coaching League. Chloe, now a junior, is working towards being an equine vet. When Chloe is not playing polo she enjoys aerial silks and trapeze.

beatrice pforr Bea was introduced to polo through a USPA clinic run by Myopia’s Nick Snow five years ago and hasn’t stopped playing since. She just completed her fourth season of playing interscholastic polo, playing on the Stage Hill/Myopia Rough Riders team. In 2016 she played with the Myopia Coaching League and in the USPA NYTS tournament.

team has been a highly successful team at Myopia and in Aiken. Homewood: The Riva family team, Homewood is led by brothers Nick and Christian Riva and has won numerous championships at Myopia. Little Bow/Big Four: The Ellis family team, Big Four draws on the Ellises’ origins in Western Canada. Big Four won the top championship—the 12-goal Chairman’s Cup—in 2010. Longmeadow: Kurt Miller’s team, Longmeadow has had a long run at Myopia dating back to the 1980s. Maplecroft: The Raymond family team, once led by Ted Raymond, a former Myopia Polo captain, is now under the leadership of Ted’s son, Jed. Pony Express: The Daniels family’s team, Pony Express competes at the highest levels of polo in Florida and at Myopia. Seagulls: The Snow family’s team, now led by Crocker Snow, has perhaps the longest and most storied history at Myopia. Stage Hill: The Poor family team, led by Peter Poor and now including Alyson and Amanda, is going on 55 years with Myopia. Winter Creek: The Graham family’s team, led by former Myopia Polo captain Lyle Graham, has had a 28-year run at Myopia.

Myopia Coaching League members Erica Ames, Rich Burke, Stephen Burr, Kirstin Costa, David Dunstan, Scott Fayban, James Grayken, William Grayken, CC Jenkins, Patricia Johnstone, Alison Marlow, Francoisa Martinolle, Leslie Milne, Lisa Ott de Bruin, Matt Roque, Michele Steyck

junior players Chase Brown, Stephen Burr, Bronwin Chandler, James Grayken, William Grayken, Grace Grotnik, Chloe Irvine, CC Jenkins, Kate McCaughey, Reed Miller, Bea Pforr, Matt Roque, Eva Trainer, Annie Veeder

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gear Stirrups Stirrups come in a variety of shapes and sizes and greatly enhance each rider’s ability to stay in the saddle and control the mount, which is essential during the match.

Polo Saddle Most akin to an English-style saddle, polo saddles are built to not be bulky or heavy and to allow for ease of movement for the rider. A polo saddle differs from most other horseback disciplines, like racing, jumping, or Western riding.

Bridle Also crucial for safe polo playing, the bridle is placed over the horse’s head and must be adjusted for the proper fit. It’s connected to the reins, which the rider uses to aid in directing his or her mount. A rubber Pelham is pictured, but the bits come in different styles and are dependent upon the horse.

The WellDressed Mount Here’s a look at some of the gear you’ll see polo players, and their mounts, wearing in today’s match. spectators lining the pitch

Ball Players score by driving a small white plastic or wooden ball into the opposing team’s goal.

Mallets Made in a variety of sizes and weights, modern mallets have long handles, a rubber-wrapped grip, a sling that’s wrapped around the player’s thumb, and a shaft made for maximum flexibility, or whippiness.

Boots Essential for proper riding, players’ boots come in an assortment of styles and are protective during ride-offs.

may turn out in their match-day best, but the players and ponies alike are adorned in a wardrobe steeped in tradition and designed for safety and effectiveness as much as it is for comfort. Playing the sport means being able to maneuver while mounted atop a 1,200 pound horse thundering down the field. The right kit can make all the difference. Here’s a look at some of the gear you’ll see polo players, and their mounts, wearing in today’s match.

Helmet Polo helmets of decades past weren’t nearly as protective as they are today. New technology has brought them up to the safety and shock attenuation standards used in other sports, like football and hockey, but the traditional polo style remains.

18 myopia polo 2018

photographs by glenn scott

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youth polo

Myopia’s Grace Grotnik—a member of the Myopia Interscholastic Polo team—has already been named as an all-star for this year’s NYTS.

A Strong Future

National Youth Tournament Series returns to Myopia. / by Bill Burke youth players to compete with and if the continuing success of against their peers. NYTS is designed the United States Polo Association’s to recognize players based on horseannual National Youth Tournament manship, sportsmanship and playing Series is any gauge of the health of the ability, developing well-rounded sport, the future looks bright. polo players. This year, on the weekend of July “It’s designed to encourage kids to 7, Myopia will host National Youth play against their peers,” Snow says. Tournament Series (NYTS) qualify“We believe that’s instrumental for ing tournament. It’s the sixth year the the growth of the sport.” club has hosted NYTS matches, and a The second key component of sign that Myopia is playing a key role the NYTS is to get youth players in the growth of the sport. seen as competitive players at their “The fact that Myopia is hosting home clubs and give them goals to a NYTS qualifier is very important,” strive for. Engaging players at this says Amanda Snow, director of player level provides them with collegiate development for the United States opportunities and opens doors for Polo Association (USPA), the sport’s international travel as well as fortifynational governing body. “Myopia has ing clubs at the local level. been a host since the first year of the Players—male and female—attend program in 2013, and has also hosted the regional qualifiers as individuthe championships, which is a really als, and are placed on teams big deal.” NYTS cultivates and procalendar by the host club. At the end of the weekend, all-stars are motes junior polo throughjul 7-8 awarded, and those players out the United States by USPA NYTS Qualifier become eligible to be selected creating opportunities for aug 29–sep 2

20 myopia polo 2018

USPA NYTS Championships Denver Polo Club

for the NYTS championships teams. That selection goes far beyond playing talent. This year the NYTS program is excited to host a second division for female players. The East vs. West Challenge will be comprised of eight female NYTS All-Stars from around the country. In addition to the East vs. West division, female players will still be eligible to play on the open Zone teams as well. Myopia’s Grace Grotnik—a member of the Myopia Interscholastic Polo team—has already been named as an all-star for this year’s NYTS. All-stars are selected at each NYTS qualifier based on their horsemanship, sportsmanship, playing ability current handicap and team ability. All-stars named in the 2018 season will then be eligible to advance to the national championships. Grotnik qualified in Scottsdale, Arizona, in March. “Myopia has a really strong youth player membership, so often there will be many on the all-star roster,” Snow says. “For Grace—she’s been playing as much polo as she can, which is the whole spirit of it: to play new places and meet new people and to develop around the country.” The NYTS program has a 43 percent female participation rate, which prompted the creation of a female division at the championships this year, which are scheduled to be played on Labor Day Weekend in Denver. Team USPA members like C.B. Scherer, Nicholas Snow and Felipe Viana have volunteered their time and expertise to coach the younger players at the Myopia NYTS tournament. “For me, personally, I am pleased with how the program introduces youth players to new people,” Snow says. “The relationships you make in this sport are everything, and I really enjoy watching these kids make new friends and share their passion.” photograph by jared charney

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equestrian medicine

of the polo community participate in a training event every year, led by a cerRiders, referees, and enthusiasts alike keep a close eye on the welfare tified professional, to deal with horse of Myopia’s polo ponies. / by Bill Burke emergencies if they should happen. “We are as prepared as you can be it is sometimes said that the best for an emergency,” Maguire says. horse,” Loheac, herself an aspiring athletes on a polo field are the horses. The Equine Welfare Committee polo player, says. “But it’s not abusive There are few polo players who was formed to better serve the needs or aggressive at all. It’s basically just a would argue the spirit of that claim, of the animals who take reinforcement of natural so when it comes time to caring for aids like your leg or your Equine welfare part in the fast, exciting their four-legged counterparts, the sport. While the game can hands or your feet.” committee men and women of Myopia take a move at a very fast pace The scrutiny paid to chairman proactive approach to equine care. Kimberly Maguire and can be quite physical equine welfare at Myopia advisory committee The Myopia Equine Welfare at times, riders, referees has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Bryan Parrott Cathy Taylor Committee—a group made up of and others are keeping Many of the guidelines Nick Snow polo players, equestrians, veteria constant close eye on started here have been Myopia Equine Welfare members Terri Campbell the animals’ welfare. If a narians, experts and longtime club adopted by the United C.J. Brown horse isn’t feeling right, it members—ensures the safety and States Polo Association. Betty Muise becomes apparent to the care of the horses remains a focus of “Our main mission is rider very quickly and a time out is everyone involved in the sport. to make sure the horses are OK and taken for the player to switch mounts. “Here at Myopia, we are very well that people are aware of the things Steps are then taken to treat whatever prepared to care for the horses,” we do to make sure the horses are situation may be arising. Equine Welfare Committee Chairhealthy,” Committee member Betty “The responsibility of the rider is man Kimberly Maguire says. “If anyMuise says. “We work to make sure to not put the horse into a dangerthing should happen, we are prepared everyone is on the same page and that ous situation,” advisory committee to take care of it in the best possible the horses are cared for.” way. We have the people and we have member Nick Snow says. “The playMuise says the committee this the training.” ers really love their horses, there is no season will work to ensure informaToward that end, polo ponies are other way to say it, so we are just here tion is readily available for spectators seen as teammates and are treated to echo pretty much everybody’s colwho may have questions. as such. “They’re conditioned like lective feelings on equine welfare.” The committee and other members athletes, so they should be in a regular work program between actually playing,” Dr. Suzanne Loheac, of Backstretch Veterinary, Inc., says. “They’re in a regular program to keep them fit and they’re all in good veterinary care. They are treated like high-performance athletes.” For the uninitiated, the fast pace of the game and the physical nature of the sport can sometimes give the appearance of rough treatment. Play is closely monitored, however, and the horses are watched closely. “I think when you do watch a match, you’ll see tight turns and how some people use spurs and some use whips—which we refer to as artificial aids—to help communicate with the 22 myopia polo 2018

Photograph by Bob Packert

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24 myopia polo 2018

photograph by glenn scott

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26 myopia polo 2018

photograph by glenn scott

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jewelry 4

5 10

11 12

In the Bling

Accessorize yourself with a sparkly brooch. 1. Vintage butterfly pin, $25, Canal Street Antiques. 2. Kenneth Jay Lane brooch, $215, Royal Jewelers. 3. Pearl Royal Estate pin, $10,500, Royal Jewelers. 4. Vintage flower pin, $9, Chic Consignment. 5. Royal Collection stingray pin, $4,995, Royal Jewelers. 6. Vintage beaded fly pin, $10, Flukes & Finds. 7. Royal Collection pin, $60, Royal Jewelers. 8. Royal Collection diamond spider pin, $18,500, Royal Jewelers. 9. Vintage star fish pin, $10, Sweetwater & Company. 10. Amy Kahn Russell mother of pearl and silver pin, $180, Jambu. 11. Amy Kahn Russell handcarved and painted bone scrimshaw hummingbird brooch, $450, Jambu. 12. Vintage brooch, $27, Canal St. Antiques. 13. Vintage gold bead brooch, $10, Flukes & Finds. 14. Vintage pearl leaf pin, $8, Flukes & Finds. 15. Vintage rhinestone brooch, $18, Witch City Consignment. 16. Vintage brooch, $10, Modern Millie. 17. Vintage gold butterfly pin, $8.50, Witch City Consignment.

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16 14

photograph by glenn scott

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fashion

1 Metal Cuffs, $98, Rose & Dove. Adriano Goldschmied necklace, $395, Irresistibles. Red clutch, $35, Rose & Dove. Fly wedges, $175, Sole Amour. Drew floral top, $179, Dani Kaye. Parker stripe top, $188, Dani Kaye. AG jeans, $178, Dani Kaye. 2 Art Deco fringe earrings, $198, Sole Amour. Beaded clutch, $178, Sole Amour. 5YMedio shoe, $328, Sole Amour. Smythe windowpane blazer, $695, Sole Amour. Nicole Miller eyelash dress, $345, J.Mode.

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3 All items from Giblees. Polo baseball cap, $39.50. Maui Jim sunglasses, $249. Swims loafers, $160. Holbrook sweater, $285. Psycho Bunny polo, $98. Polo shorts, $89. Meyer pant, $228. 4 All items from Farley’s of Newburyport. Farley’s belt, $105. Farley’s tie, $75. Olukui shoes, $100. Bugatchi dress shirt, $145. Sports jacket, $395. Heritage pant, $175. Grayers sweater, $145. —lysa pelletier

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30 myopia polo 2018

photographs by glenn scott

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scene

Having a Ball

Members of the Myopia Polo community gathered together to celebrate. 6

4 7

the annual myopia polo ball july 29, 2017

1. Erica Ames and Scott Pugh. 2. Steve and Iris Schnitzer and Rodney Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor. 3. Philip Zocco and Kirstin Costa. 4. Federico Wulff, Jackie Miller, Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld and Kimberly Maguire. 5. Adam Markos and Britt Holtgren. 6. Guests socialize outside. 7. Dr. Leslie Milne and Bob Guttman. 8. Clockwise, from top left, Robert Scott, Stacey Scott, Kirstin Costa, Rodney Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor and Robert Buell. 9. Kahla and Marcos Onetto, with baby Mae. 10. Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, Kimberly Maguire and Kirstin Costa. 11. Jackie, Reed and Kurt Miller.

9 10

photographs by shawn tinkham

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34 myopia polo 2018

Myopia Through the Years

Member enthusiasm keeps one of the country’s oldest polo club thriving after 130 years. / by Bill Burke

36 myopia polo 2018

he oldest continually active polo club in the country, Myopia can trace its roots back to the 1800s— when the sport was first introduced to the United States. As polo traveled up the coast from New York in 1887, Randolph M. “Bud” Appleton, who played on the Harvard Polo Team, encouraged a few enthusiasts to knock a ball around at Gibney Field. The following summer, more than 200 people traveled by carriage to watch players scrimmage and to listen to a performance by the Salem Cadet Band. Although a witness to that event

declared that “the best playing was done by the band,” Myopia was emboldened by its popularity and issued a challenge to the Dedham Country and Polo Club, igniting an intense rivalry that was to last almost 50 years. “There have been so many great things about Myopia,” former Captain of Polo Lyle Graham says about the venerable club. “You’re looking at a history which has this blend of British aristocracy, ordered military and the can-do attitude of Americans. That’s compelling. That’s what Myopia was and is today.” »

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1887-1930: polo grips north shore elite

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In 1890, when the United States Polo Association formed, Myopia joined as a charter member. Five years later, the young team from Hamilton competed in the Senior Championship, the equivalent of the National Open today, and managed to take the top prize. Ties to the Harvard Polo Team, which are strong to this day, grew in 1907, when the team started practicing at Gibney Field; it was there that it defeated Yale during the country’s first formal college game. Pictures from those early days showed the sidelines crowded with carriages and parasols. When automobiles first appeared on the scene, they were segregated to one corner, so as not to scare the horses.

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1930-1958: the lean years Cars soon became an accepted fixture on the sidelines, but the Great Depression and World War II brought growth of the sport to a virtual standstill; polo was simply too expensive during those years. Loath to give up the game entirely, some players took to bicycle polo to keep costs down, but even that disappeared when news of Pearl Harbor was brought to a group of bicycle poloists on the Myopia club practice field in 1941.

1958-1990: the glamour years

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It took years after the war for polo to regain momentum in South Hamilton, but the youthful energy of players like Adam Winthrop, Crocker Snow, and the late Don Little—the latter of whom organized impromptu matches during his time as a B-47 bomber pilot at the Strategic Air Command Base in Tucson, AZ—inspired veteran players like Tim Clark, C.G. Rice, and Neil Ayer to retake Gibney Field, which had been turned into a hay field. Polo became so popular that members, many of whom had demanding weekday jobs and could only play on Sundays, were inspired to build an outdoor arena so they could also play on Wednesday nights. The arena, built entirely by the players using timbers from a torn-down dancehall in Peabody, became the site for several national tournaments. Hollywood discovered Myopia in 1967. Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway shot polo scenes for The Thomas Crown Affair, which tells the story of a jaded Boston playboy who robs a bank for kicks (in addition to playing at Myopia). The money from the two-week experience enabled Myopia to build a 24-stall polo barn, still in use today. A year later, the Myopia team was invited to play in Iran, the birthplace of polo, as part of that nation’s 2,500th anniversary celebration, according to the book “Myopia: Notes: 1875-1975,” compiledColors and edited by Edward Weeks. As the AN book notes, “Each player chose three [Arabian stallions] AM

Date:

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A polo team at Myopia in the club’s earlier days. Myopia has hosted royalty, screen stars, and other luminaries.

from an original string of 30, and began to get accustomed to the [pebble] field…the steady diet of lamb kebab, vodka, and Caspian Sea caviar, and the hot desert air.” In the 1970s, an Iranian team visited Gibney Field, as well as teams from New Zealand, Pakistan, and Argentina. The resurgence of polo on a national level, combined with the inspiration of Myopia captains like Ayer, Little, and Michael Fawcett, attracted more players and more teams. The annual Forbes Cup, a New England championship game generally played against Fairfield, Conn., gained a strong following during this time, as did the renowned East Coast Open, at the 20goal level, which attracted 11 teams at its height, with top high-goal players and enthusiastic crowds.

1990-2018: a comfortable place Under the captainship of leaders like Neil Raymond, Rob Wilkinson, Lyle Graham, Albert Ellis, and, currently, Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, Myopia Polo has achieved a storied place on the polo scene. Further accolades have come to the club through a solidified relationship with Harvard Polo and the great honor bestowed upon Adam Snow, who achieved the USPA’s cherished 10-goal handicap—only the second Myopia-trained player to do so. In 2013, the club sent many local players to intercollegiate, national, and international tournaments. The club has also placed emphasis on horse welfare. Above all, Myopia remains dedicated to introducing young players to the honourable sport of polo.

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m yopia

equestrian history

Museum Quality

Myopia neighbor to chronicle region’s equestrian history and influence on the world. / by Bill Burke

the flickering footage is sepia has existed, but it’s also connected to the rest of the world,” says Peter tone and grainy, but the exhilarating Gwinn, director of external affairs at power of a string of horses careening the museum. across an open field at full gallop has The exhibit, planned to open next lost nothing through the years. season, will feature floor-to-ceiling The film, shot in October of 1927 imagery, a video theater, interactive on what was then the Bradley Palm3D displays and immersive, interacer property between Topsfield and tive exhibits that explore and reveal Hamilton, is just one element the the 6,000 year partnercurators at the Wenham ship between horses and Museum have amassed Wenham Museum humans. And polo— as they work toward the Equestrian Histories 132 Main St., Wenham along with 3-day event, creation of a new exhibit: horses.wenhammuseum.org dressage, jumping, fox Equestrian Histories. 978-468-2377 hunt and steeplechase— Planned as an evolving Equestrian Histories will play a major role in gallery, Equestrian HistoCommittee the one-of-a-kind effort. ries will be dedicated to chairman Winifred Perkin Gray “Neil Ayer, Jr., is inspiring discovery of the leading the way,” Gwinn rich history the helps define members Augusta Ayer Neil Ayer, Jr. says. “He has a trementhe region, and also how it Randy Ayer dous amount of artifacts resonates internationally. Barbara Watkoff Brown Curiale from horse trials and his “There’s so much eques- Donald MaryAnn Esdaile Donald V. Little, Jr. family’s work creating all trian history here in this Holly Little Judith Little the open land in the area. area around Myopia and Jenny Perkin Peter Poor He’s got an immense the Wenham Museum that Holliday Pulsifer 40 myopia polo 2018

Holly Shepherd Eleanor Van Alen Alexandra Gray Wiberg

amount of history that connects his family with the Patton family, both through military and polo.” The collection includes rare and never before seen images from “The Thomas Crown Affair” (which was filmed in part at Myopia in 1968) including pictures of Steve McQueen with Neil Ayer, storyboard illustrations of the shoot, and a collection of critical cups and trophies with historic significance. Museum planning and exhibit These screen captures of design firm Jeff Kennedy footage depict the running of Associates is creating the the Willowdale space with both newCup—a steeplechase race comers and longtime meeting of the Myopia Hunt adherents in mind. Club, held on “The design of the Oct. 22, 1927. exhibit will be able to communicate the uniforms, the differences in the saddles, the differences in the horses, what the difference between a pony and a dressage thoroughbred—both in scale and in three dimensions,” Gwinn says. A number of longtime Myopia members and players make up the committee helping to create the exhibit, and notable Myopia players are providing invaluable guidance and artifacts. Fundraising continues— the Wenham Museum has currently raised $280,000 of the $500,000 necessary. The initial contributions to the nonprofit museum did come in an unexpectedly short amount of time, thanks in no small part to the passion of polo’s adherents. “The whole idea of competing and the whole idea of training and having a commitment to sport—they share those common values across what we call the horse in sport,” Gwinn says of committee members. “The second part is they very much want to share the sport. They’re looking for new ways and new channels through which to communicate the sport for all levels of people to participate in.”

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m yopia

u.s. polo association Clockwise, from bottom left, H.L. Herbert, the first chairman of the USPA; Mary Duncan Sanford and Babs Tyrrell-Martin, Westchester Cup, 1939; Stuart Iglehart, Meadow Brook Club, 1939; Marjorie LeBoutillier, Bostwick Field, 1935; Pacific Coast Open, 1929.

The USPA

128 years of innovation, inclusion, and tradition. / by Bill Burke

with a history dating back thousands of years, Polo is considered the oldest team sport in known history. The innovations of the past century, however, have molded it into the fastpaced, exciting game we recognize today. What was once a contest where eight or more players would gallop up and down the field for the better part of an afternoon has evolved into a focused, precise sport that highlights horsemanship, physical prowess and sharp, team play. Much of the credit for that organizational transformation—at least in the U.S.—belongs to the United States Polo Association. Over dinner, one evening in New York City in 1890, H.L. Herbert, John Cowdin and Thomas Hitchcock formally create the Polo Association—now the United States Polo Association (USPA). 42 myopia polo 2018

The group is made up of seven clubs and is headquartered in New York. 100 handicaps are assigned to members, including future President Teddy Roosevelt. Herbert is elected chairman—a post he would hold for the next 31 years. The first U.S. Open Championship is played in 1904 and the legendary American team that would become known as the Big Four (Harry Payne Whitney, Devereux Milburn, and Larry and Monty Waterbury) defeats England to win the Westchester Cup. Under the USPA’s guidance, the sport continues to see a growth in

popularity in the U.S., necessitating expansion south and west. In the 1920s, crowds of more than 35,000 people gather to watch major tournaments, and players begin numbering their jerseys 1-4 to designate position and role. According to The Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame, it was estimated that there was an annual need for more than 63,000 polo ponies. Women begin to make their mark in the 1930s, as Cornell fields an intercollegiate women’s team, and a group of Army officer’s wives form the “Whippettes.” The Pacific Women’s Polo Association is formed in 1934. Women now make up 40 percent of the USPA’s membership. The 1940s saw a slowdown in the growth of the sport, with record keeping suspended during World War II. The sport’s recovery took hold over the next 20 years, as the popularity of Arena Polo grows and a surge in the top ranks sets the stage for growth in the decades to come. The fashion world adopts the polo image, high-goal polo is recognized as one of the fastest-moving and exciting spectator sports in the world, and the Palm Beach Polo and Country Club opens in 1979—becoming the foremost center for international high-goal polo. In the 1980s, USPA membership reaches an all-time high. The USPA has evolved from an all-volunteer organization to one employing a full administrative and executive staff. Today, the USPA includes nearly 300 member clubs in 13 geographic circuits around the United States and oversees 40 national tournaments.

streaming polo The USPA broadcasts polo online, using a combination of multi-camera angles, high-definition equipment, dramatic drone coverage and expert commentators to make tournaments, matches and short films available to a global audience. The USPA has a robust archive of polo video, ranging from high-goal tournaments and interviews, to intercollegiate play, horse highlights and a collection of the top plays of 2018. Visit the USPA Polo Network at uspolo.org/video. Visitors can also subscribe to the USPA Polo Network Youtube channel.Fans can also follow the USPA on Twitter @PoloAssociation and on Facebook at facebook.com/teamuspa, facebook.com/iipolo/.

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m yopia

myopia hunt club

Release the Hounds!

Myopia Hunt is a sublime blend of athleticism and tradition. / by Brion O’Connor whether they’re parading across manicured polo fields or romping at full clip through local woodlands, the hounds, horses and smartly clad equestrians of the Myopia Hunt are impossible to ignore. “I first came upon the hunt by chance, while riding through Bradley Palmer State Park,” said Lisa Wohlleib of Brookline. “I was awestruck by the hounds, the number of horses and the pageantry. Once I learned a little more, I was equally impressed with the historical aspect, and the fact that very little about the hunt has changed in the last 135 years.” That, in a nutshell, is the endearing, and enduring, charm of the Myopia Hunt. The event is a spectacle, especially for the uninitiated. With more than two dozen hounds, often baying and tails wagging, majestic horses and riders in formal dress kits, all moving through fields and forests at breathtaking speed, the Myopia Hunt is equestrian theater at its finest. “The hounds love to work, and when they find the scent they lay cry, and take off after it. We then follow the hounds,” said Wohlleib. “It’s great fun for all, riders, horses and hounds. The hounds are so well trained and focused upon finding the scent, they take no notice of (other) dogs, deer, turkeys or even the occasional fox that we’ve come upon.” 44 myopia polo 2018

The hunt also has deep roots at the club, and in the community. The first 20 hounds—10 “couples”—arrived at the club in May 1882. The hunt, much like the adjoining polo fields, has hosted a number of highprofile guests over the years, including President William Howard Taft in 1909, Edward Prince of Wales in 1925, and England’s Princess Ann in the 1970s. But it’s also been an escape for generations of families and equestrians of all stripes. “Evolution is the word, not revolution,” said Hamilton’s Nicholas White, who is the joint hunt master along with Kim Cutler. “Over the years, more has stayed the

same than changed. That’s what is so wonderful. I look at my job as master to preserve this tradition for future generations.” The members not only celebrate tradition, but also work tirelessly to nurture the hunt’s customs. It is no longer a live hunt, but a “drag hunt.” Huntsmen walk a pre-determined course beforehand, laying down a scented “line” of fox urine and “a few secret ingredients,” said Phillip Headdon, a 35-year Myopia veteran. “Over the course of a days hunting, we’ll run an average of 4 to 6 miles, maybe more,” said Headdon, who lives in Hamilton. “When hounds find the line, they’ll take off at full cry, a noise you can hear from a mile away. That’s the thrill of the chase, with the hounds running and you on your horse, keeping up with them on every twist and turn and jump.” Headdon and his kennelmen are responsible for cleaning and maintaining local trails. They also repair and build new jumps throughout “hunt country,” which extends from Hamilton to Newburyport. “We make sure the trails are safe for riders,” said Headdon. “And, paramount, we respect the wishes of the landowners and farmers whose land we ride over, so we don’t do any damage to their property.” Then there is the wardrobe, which is as elegant as photographs by shawn tinkham

From left, Huntsman Phillip Headdon and hounds; Joint Hunt Master Kim Cutler.

a formal dance. During the funeral mass of a longtime Myopia fixture, Patrick Keough, this past fall, a local pastor recalled joining Keogh and his brother to watch the hunt. When he saw the riders crest a hill, the priest exclaimed “What magnificent red coats!” The congregation erupted in laughter, knowing the term “red coats” is never used at Myopia. “The pink coats worn by the Masters of the Hunt and the hunt staff were originally made by a London tailor, Thomas Pink,” said Cutler. “Though they are red or scarlet in color, they are referred to as ‘pink coats’ in reference to the tailor. “When gentlemen are awarded their colors— given to hunt members after a period of good standing with the hunt—they are allowed to wear a pink coat and they place their colors on the collar,” she said. “Women continue to wear their black jackets and put their colors on the collar. Women masters are allowed to wear pink coats—I have chosen to stay with my black coat because it belonged to my great grandmother.” Again, the emphasis is on tradition. Wohlleib was so intrigued, and enamored, by the hunt that she later joined, and contin-

ues to commute from her Boston-area home to ride alongside the hounds. The hunt is clearly a year-round endeavor, year after year. Not only is the upkeep of the horses a time-consuming task, but the hounds also need to be properly trained. It is a task that Headdon relishes. “The magic of it is to see the hounds progress from pups to seasoned hounds, respond to the horn and voice not only in our hunting but in the kennels and our daily waking out of the hounds,” said Headdon. “It is truly a great privilege to see hounds from the day they’re born to the day they start their first hunt at 1-year-old and to see them progress through their lives.” It is a privilege that none of the hunt members take for granted. “Truly, when I look at our membership, the common threads that bring us together, rain or shine, cold or hot, are a love of animals and the outdoors, interest in being part of a great community and enjoying that sporting camaraderie, the thrill of riding and jumping a horse, and being part of a time honored-tradition which holds us to high standards of dress and behavior,” said White. Those traditions will guarantee the hunt’s future, and they are in good hands.

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Myopia Polo magazine 2018 Sundays at Myopia

match day details / page 48

The Path to Gibney Field coaching league / page 56

photograph by andrew katsampes

Along for the Ride! photo essay / page 62

Every weekend at Myopia Polo offers a spectacle of sport, tradition and culture. / by Brion Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor

sundays at myopia photographs by Rocco Coviello

I the details Arrive: The gates to the polo grounds open at 1:30 p.m. (ample tailgating time,) and matches start at 3 p.m. Admission: The admission fee is $15 per-person. Children under 12 are admitted free. Tickets are available at the gate on the day of the event. Parking: All parking is free. Unless otherwise reserved, spectators can get field-side parking on a first-come, firstserve basis. Refreshments: Spectators are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for tailgate parties prior to and during the matches.

50 myopia polo 2018

it’s a little after 6 a.m. on a warm September morning, and like most every Sunday during polo season, the Myopia Hunt Club is slowly coming to life. The sun has barely breached the tree line on the far side of Gibney Field when Myopia manager Kimberly Maguire arrives to shake the sleep out of the venerable club. She starts her day by canvassing the field—a process that has been mirrored on this precise spot for more than a century. She’ll meet with the workers responsible for mowing the lawns to check on conditions. She’ll walk the field to ensure it’s not too wet and that everything is properly prepared. In a few short hours, horses will be thundering up and down the field, thrilling spectators and testing athletes—and it’s Maguire’s responsibility to ensure it all goes off safely. “It’s a clean slate at 6:30,” Maguire said of her early morning routine. “And then we go from there.” On this particular day, Harvard will face Oxford in the annual Harvard Invitational match (see how the match turned out in our Tournament Spotlight, page 53) but weekend routines have remained remarkably unchanged for generations. Sunday is match-day at Myopia, and preparations start shortly after sunrise. By the time the sun begins to illuminate the brilliant

emerald pitch and the first horse trailers take the turn off of Bay Road and make their way to the field, the grounds are abuzz with activity. Once things are in place, the day becomes a celebration of sport—the key word, in this case, being ‘celebration.’ There’s always been something of a party atmosphere surrounding the polo matches at the Myopia Hunt Club. According to “Myopia: A Centennial Chronicle” compiled by Edward Weeks in 1975, the Boston Globe reported that, at a 1888 exhibition match, “200 people came from Nahant, Swampscott and along the North Shore, in private carriages… and the Salem brass band discoursed music on the lawn from 5 to 6 p.m.” With polo fairly new at the club, a few members were less than impressed with the quality of competition. Myopia member Crocker Snow Jr. wrote that club wit Jack Wheelwright quipped he “saw several contests that afternoon, but thought the best playing was done by the band.” What a difference 130 years can make. Today, Myopia offers world-class polo that rivals the game’s first-class festive feel. The spectators who attend the Sunday games at legendary Gibney Field don’t take a backseat to anyone in the tailgating department. “If you are going to go, go big,” says photographer Don Toothaker. “Do it up in grand style. Be part of the culture for the day. “Each time I go, I see more and learn more about the sport as well as the atmosphere and culture that surrounds it,” Toothaker says. “The atmosphere is charged with the excitement of a fast-paced sport as well as a fantastic family social event. Last year, I brought my family to a match. Even my teenagers liked it.” According to Dr. Bryan Parrott, a veterinarian, polo player and seasonal Myopia polo member, the games reflect the polo’s timelessness, and often speak to a bygone era. “The Myopia polo matches are a reflection of the Great Gatsby years,” says Parrott, adding he’s been to hundreds of matches over the past two decades. “The games are beautiful to watch. “Most people come away from a polo match having met many new acquaintances. Long-

s u ndays at myopia

term friendships have developed at this venue.” Wenham’s Kirsten Alexander has attended dozens of matches at Myopia, and “over time, I’ve learned a lot more about the nuances of the game.” “The announcers do a great job describing what’s happening on the field,” says Alexander. “The polo ponies are magnificent athletes, and you get a huge rush when they gallop by.” The cost of participating in polo can be daunting, considering each player typically has four to six ponies for each match. But the price for watching isn’t prohibitive—$15 for spectators (children 12 and under attend for free). “So many sports are expensive to get into, and then it’s expensive to eat and even get a bottle of water,” Alexander says. “Polo is surprisingly inexpensive to watch. “Afterwards, the kids go visit the ponies,” she says. “The trainers and owners are always really sweet. The local community actively recruits and trains polo players, especially women. It’s such a special part of Hamilton’s history.”

Maguire, who typically puts in 12-hour shift on match day, said mid-summer tournaments usually feature four teams, and the preliminary games are often played on Winthrop Field, alongside Route 1A, on the preceding Friday. These matches are open to the public, free of charge. “Those games are the semifinals of the game you’ll see on Sunday,” she says. To fully appreciate the pageantry of a polo match, it helps to know the game’s history at Myopia. Snow’s first chapter in Weeks’ 100-year retrospective, entitled “Polo: The Fat Years,” recounts the sport’s first four decades at the club. Myopia teams—including the Freebooters and the Gulls—competed against squads from Dedham and The Country Club, among others. In 1907, Harvard faced off against Yale at Myopia in the nation’s first collegiate polo match. The sport, wrote Snow, suffered during the Great Depression, and many local ponies “were turned out to pasture where they grew fat and happy.” Several years later, Myopia polo roared back, with the club’s top team

Match days at Myopia begin with the friendly camaraderie of tailgate get-togethers prior to throw-in. Fast-moving play is punctuated by the divot stomping tradition, and even an occasional appearance of the Myopia Hunt hounds.

2018 myopia polo 51

Spectators line Gibney Field each Sunday during the season, as they have for generations, to watch and participate in colorful activities and traditions that remain remarkably unchanged over the club’s 130-year existence,

52 myopia polo 2018

winning the inaugural Forbes Cup, signifying the New England Championship and groundskeeper Ticky Dane nurturing the manicured pitch at Gibney Field. But when the United States entered World War II after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Gibney “went uncut as it gradually turned from good turf to fallow hay,” wrote Snow. After the war, Myopia polo got a jump-start when Tim Clark, captain of the Forbes Cup winning team, heard about a disbanding Army cavalry unit, and “bought, sight unseen, a boxcar of 17 horses, picking a few for himself and hoping to pass the others to friends,” wrote Snow. Clark found a willing ally in Crocker Snow, a pilot during the war. Snow’s son Crocker Jr., stepson Don Little and Adam Winthrop sparked a polo revival at Myopia that culminated in the late 1950s. The sport got another big bump in 1967, when movie star Steve McQueen mounted up at Myopia during the filming of the bank-heist thriller, “The Thomas Crown Affair.” The spectacle attracted a young Robert Whidden of Andover, who was soon taking riding lessons from Bob Crawford at Don Little’s old Centennial Farm on Bay Road. “I enjoyed riding, and found myself on the old wooden horse in the hay loft, batting around balls in the screened-in area for shot practice,” says Whidden. “After I married in early 1972, I stayed away from the game until

1985, when I became a patron. I guess I’ve attended close to a thousand games, but the attraction hasn’t changed over time.” While Hollywood’s presence was fleeting, its influence endured. Even more lasting is the legacy of the sport. One of the great customs at Myopia is the passing of the sport down through generations, embodied by families such as Ayers, Rice, Snow, Little, Clark, Burrage and Graham, among others. That tradition continues, with the added attraction of more women and girls playing. “At Myopia Polo, there are players of all ages and it’s mixed gender,” Alexander says. “You’ll see a teenage girl on the same team as her mom or dad. As the mother of a daughter, that’s been important to me.” One of those female players, Terri Campbell of Hamilton and a Myopia member, was introduced to the sport at Cornell University. “I was already a rider, and immediately wanted to try polo,” she says. “It amazed me from the beginning what horse and rider can do on the field—the speed, agility, and team play.” The game itself is remarkable theater, with two teams of four riders and their steeds racing across a pitch the size of nine football fields. Polo horses today, for the most part, are large, well-muscled creatures, far different than the smaller, more nimble “ponies” that once dominated the sport. They are incredibly versatile, able to start quickly, stop quicker,

s u ndays at myopia

tournament spotlight

The Fifth-Annual Harvard Invitational

On Sunday, September 17, 2017, Harvard took the field against Oxford in a defensive-minded affair. The line of cars ushering fans onto the grounds of the Myopia Hunt Club queued up early on a sunny mid-September Sunday at Gibney Field for the fifth annual Harvard Invitational—a match that proved to be a highlight of the fall season. The tilt, which also served to celebrate 10 years of Harvard Polo, saw the Crimson take the field against Atlantic Cup victors, Oxford Polo, under ideal conditions, described by Harvard Head Coach Crocker Snow as “a good day with beautiful weather.” The mixed-team contest saw Harvard’s side: Captain Will Lobkowiscz, J. Paul Meyer, Caroline Cronin, Kelsey O’Connor, Eliza Bird and Robiny Jamerson, face off against the Oxford lineup of Hayes Hagan, Issa Dasu Patel, Charlie Hitchman and William Hsu. The first game of the college polo season would be played on the oldest active polo field in the nation, which was lined by enthusiastic supporters whose number swelled to more than 500 by the

time umpire and Myopia member C.B. Scherer started it all off with the 3 p.m. throw-in. Supporters from the Oxford and Cambridge Society of New England, the Harvard Club of the North Shore, a number of alumni organizations and a full complement of enthusiasts got to watch a carefully-considered game plan that kept scoring low and excitement high. “Oxford decided to play defensively,” Snow says. “They knew we’d be the better team if it was a wide-open, galloping game, because that’s the nature of our team.” J. Paul Meyer scored for Harvard in the first chukker, and as the teams took a breather and re-examined their play at the half, Myopia’s Hunt Club paraded the hounds across the grounds. In the second half, the game became more defensive in nature. While Harvard had the ability to move the ball quickly, Oxford’s Hitchman (“their best player,” Snow says) controlled the tone of the match by slowing play down. The result: A lowscoring affair that saw as many shots

foiled as taken, and a few key foul shots that ultimately decided the outcome. “It would’ve made a difference if we made the foul shots we had,” Snow says. “The foul shots were not difficult, but we missed both, and they made one or two. Otherwise we played fine.” Oxford found itself up 3-1 at the end of the game, and though it wasn’t the outcome he would’ve preferred, the famously competitive Harvard coach was pleased with his team’s effort by the end of the final chukker. “More importantly, it’s really about fellowship than it is about who wins or loses. They’re great people, we had a great time in England, we had a great time in the practice games and I’d say most of our kids feel like they’re friends of theirs now,” Snow says. “They’ll be back.” The two teams will face off again, as this year’s Atlantic Cup—pitting Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge and Yale against one another—will be played in the U.S. for the first time in more than a dozen years.

Harvard’s mixed-team competed against Oxford Polo in the fifth annual Harvard Invitational. Last year’s Atlantic Cup victors, Oxford, top right, won the match 3-1, which saw the Harvard side compete hard against the stiff defense of the Oxford players

2018 myopia polo 53

sundays at m yo p i a

“I love the details of the preparation—the horses being groomed, the riders polishing boots, the trailers adorned with saddles, blankets, bridles and everything else that goes along with the days match. And then the traditional pageantry of the introductions, stomping the divots and the camaraderie of a game well played. The match itself is great, but the elements that add the flavor to it all bind it all together in a classy, culturally rich way.” Don Toothaker

Charlie Hitchman and William Hsu, of Oxford, top, wind down after the match, while Robiny Jamerson and Caroline Cronin, of Harvard, take a few pictures with family and friends.

54 myopia polo 2018

and combine that agility with thoroughbred speed and a cat burglar’s nerve. During the past 13 decades, Myopia has hosted many international polo stars. However, many more players were born, raised, and developed locally. “We players love to share the sport and play in front of a crowd, and hopefully the spectators love seeing the beauty of the horses and the skill of the riders playing an ancient sport,” says Campbell. “It’s not about Ralph Lauren, or the British royals, or fancy hats. It’s about the horses and team play and sharing what we love with those who want to come out on a lovely Sunday afternoon and enjoy the tradition with us.” Sunday’s marquee match starts promptly at 3 p.m., with a pony parade, a rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner and player introductions. The game consists of six 7-minute chukkers, followed by sudden-death overtime if the score is tied. Keep in mind, though, there’s much more to a Sunday afternoon at Myopia. While the

game is the main attraction, the surrounding social milieu is worth the price of admission. “I love the details of the preparation—the horses being groomed, the riders polishing boots, the trailers adorned with saddles, blankets, bridles and everything else that goes along with the days match,” says Toothaker. “And then the traditional pageantry of the introductions, stomping the divots and the camaraderie of a game well played. The match itself is great, but the elements that add the flavor to it all bind it all together in a classy, culturally rich way.” Like many, Alexander fell for polo the first time she watched a game. “Hamilton is a big equestrian town, and polo is a part of that,” she says. “Most of the local people I met had never been to a match. We were delighted to find out that not only were the matches open to the public, but that they had a real interest in building an audience. It’s very kid-friendly. “Over the last few years, it’s gotten more and more popular,” says Alexander. “I’ve prob-

ably brought more than 200 different people of all ages to matches. For most, it was their first polo match, and everyone had a great time. Really, what’s not to love about a beautiful summer day with a picnic, horses galloping by, and a friendly crowd?” True, but there are tips to maximize your experience (see sidebar). The 3 p.m. start gives spectators plenty of time to put together their tailgating baskets and coolers, and still get to the field when the gates open at 1:30. “If you don’t have a reserved tailgate spot for the season, you need to plan to arrive early enough to save a car spot or open space to place a picnic blanket,” says Campbell. “This year Myopia Polo is going to experiment with having reserved seating under the tent, so if you can’t find a tailgate space, you can still stay for the game in comfort. “When I come to the game just to watch, I’ll pack a picnic basket with the family favorites, cheese and crackers, fresh fruit that is easy to eat like grapes and berries, cookies or brownies, and always a lot of drink options— soda, water, wine and beer,” she says. “If I’m having guests who haven’t seen a polo match before, it may be more elaborate. And I try to add an elegant touch with a cloth tablecloth, real wine glasses and maybe fresh flowers.” Of course, you can pull out all the stops, but it’s not necessary. “Polo is associated, incorrectly, with the upper class. Polo is for everyone,” says Toothaker. “Yes, if you tailgate you might be next to a Mercedes Benz SUV with a few people sipping champagne from fluted glasses and eating shrimp cocktail. But it’s just as likely the car on the other side is a Honda and those people are eating some deli sandwiches and drinking some local craft beer out of red cups. You don’t have to own a horse or play polo to enjoy it.” Alexander encourages visitors to always be respectful to the players and other spectators, for two very good reasons. “This isn’t a Yankees-Red Sox game. Nobody ever boos,” she says. “Clap for everyone, and appreciate the displays of outstanding sportsmanship. And just remember that the people next to you may well be related to the players.”

make the most of game day

An insider’s guide to the where, when, and how of Sundays at Myopia. Like life, a polo outing at Myopia is what you make of it. With matches starting in early June, and continuing through late September, weather conditions can vary dramatically. So the time-honored motto of the Boy Scouts—“be prepared”—applies. “On cloudy days either early in the season or late season, it’s good to have an extra jacket or two in the car for when the wind picks up,” says Hamilton’s Terri Campbell, a Myopia member and polo player. “Setting up a 10-by-10 tent is essential on hot days,” she says. “We often open the back end of the SUV to provide a little extra shade, especially for food set-up and a cooler space for the dogs.” Bug spray and sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher are highly recommended. What to Wear One of the best aspects of polo is playing the part. “While Myopia is among the oldest polo clubs in the U.S. and has a long history of traditions, there is flexibility in proper clothing for a polo match,” says Campbell. The emphasis should be comfort. Start with polarized sunglasses and the right clothing. “No one will be out of place with summer dresses for women and lightweight trousers with a linen jacket for men,” says Campbell. “But polo shirts—also known as golf shirts—and khaki shorts are more common.” Ladies, leave the spiked heels at home, since they sink into the soft turf. Wedges or flats are a much better choice, especially when it comes time to stomp divots at half-time and after the match. Conversely, wide-brimmed hats will help protect your eyes from the mid-summer sun. Likewise, baseball caps work for women, men, and children, though it’s not unusual to see gentlemen sporting stylish straw fedoras.

Where to Sit Gibney Field is enormous, with an infamous dip toward the clubhouse. If you’re sitting on the ground, you can actually lose sight of the players and the ponies. So a comfortable chair is a big advantage to keep your eye on the action. Recommended accessories include binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens. “I’ve collected pink metal folding chairs and several folding tables, and somehow it all fits in the car,” says polo fan Kirsten Alexander of Wenham. “I set the tables with linens, and use vintage tin plates, a silver champagne bucket, and a vintage picnic basket. This year we were gifted a pink pop-up tent for shade. Don’t forget paper towels.” Spectators should pack out whatever they bring in. Trash bags are a must. Safety First Respect the white lines drawn to keep you and your friends and family members at a safe distance. Don’t forget, we’re talking about a game with eight large, powerful ponies capable of making the ground shake. “The first rule of thumb is more about safety than fun,” says Campbell. “Always keep an eye on where the play is so if the ball is hit in your direction, so you can move away quickly. Remember, this isn’t like hockey where there is a Plexiglas shield between players and spectators. And that ball will hurt if you get hit.” Pet Owners Your four-legged friends are welcome, but with restrictions. Dogs are expected to be on a leash at all times. Also make sure to have enough water for them on warm days. Educate Yourself The more you know about the game, the more you’ll enjoy it.

2018 myopia polo 55

the path myopia polo coaching league shows players the way to the next level. by Bill Burke 56

Kimberly Maguire, this page, oversees the Myopia Coaching League, where players like Tricia Johnstone, opposite page, top left, Erica Ames, top right, and Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s League Coach Phoebe Ingram, bottom, work to hone their skills weekly.

photographs by adam detour

to gibney field

the main event of the weekend may be a little more than 24 hours away, but you wouldn’t know it by the intensity of the players galloping after the ball on a warm Saturday morning on a practice field at Myopia Hunt Club. Intensely focused riders thunder across meticulously-groomed grounds in the red and scarlet colors of Myopia, looking like anything you might see on a polo tournament Sunday. The only difference—these players, members of the Myopia Polo Coaching League, are competing—and learning—under the watchful eye of some seasoned tournament players. For two hours each Saturday and every Tuesday and Thursday night during the season, the Myopia Polo Coaching League takes to a field in South Hamilton, or nearby at Birds Field in Ipswich, to hone skills and in many cases, to deepen an appreciation and love of the sport. “It’s a perfect blend of fun and education,” Myopia Coaching League player Erica Ames says. “You get out there and play a real game, but you play with people who are also looking at coaching you, guiding you and training 58 myopia polo 2018

you to ultimately become a better player and teammate. It’s all of the fun of polo, but there’s also learning at same time.” It’s all led by Head Coach Kimberly Maguire, who is a Level 1 USPA Certified Polo Instructor and a Massachusetts State Licensed Riding Instructor, and assistant Coach Erica Kratz, who is also a Massachusetts State Licensed Riding Instructor. “It’s really about doing things the proper way, the right way—by horses and players,” Maguire says. The Coaching League has been a part of Myopia for some time, but underwent a rejuvenation several years ago when Myopia’s highest-rated homegrown player, Nick Snow, “lit a fire” under it. “It was there, but it wasn’t really structured,” says Maguire—who also serves as Myopia Polo Manager. “In order to have new players, you need to have a base training to ride a horse, hone your skills and move forward. When Nick Snow came in to manage it, he brought in USPA clinicians, figured out who needed to be in what league skill-wise and structured it as a Coaching League.” Players gravitated to the newly-reorganized group where they take part in slower chukkers, which eventually evolve into fasterpaced chukkers as skills develop. Maguire and Kratz are often joined by pro players who conduct clinics. Federico Wulff, a three-goal professional polo player from Argentina, brings a lifetime of expertise and can often be found passing skills on to the group of 20 players who make up the Coaching League. Maguire’s practiced eye and Kratz’s steady hand combined with the invaluable experience and skills of pros like Wulff and Snow provide a strong foundation for the club’s up-and-coming players. “It allows people to move up safely,” Maguire says. “This league is great for that.” And that is the ultimate goal—to groom players to the point where they can play at a higher level. The collection of polo players ranging in age from 12 to 60 who make up the Coaching League take part in instruction that starts with the basics—simulated games so

the path to gibney field

they can learn the rules safely—and then fullon matches with referees and umpires and fully-involved ‘white pants’ games. “If you don’t set a precedent and teach them about the things that are important in polo, they’ll never get better,” Maguire says. And quite often, members of the Coaching League do improve. In some cases, notably so. Stephen Burr took part in the Coaching

League for four years before playing in the Chairman’s Cup—a national tournament— which he won. “It was great for him,” Maguire says. “He got that experience. And that’s the goal. Does it happen every day? No, but it’s a great step-up.” The drills and lessons learned each week allowed Ames to take her game to the next level last summer, playing in a four-goal tour-

Erica Ames shares a quiet moment with Honey, owned by longtime Myopia member and player Kurt Miller (see ‘Spotlight,’ page 72).

2018 myopia polo 59

the path to gibney field

Four and two-legged athletes alike take to the field each Saturday, including Caramello, owned by Erika Kratz, left, Leslie Milne, top middle, Scott Fayban, center, and John Harding and Erica Ames, bottom middle. Federico Wulff, top right, riding Latte—also owned by Kurt Miller—lends his expertise, as Erica Ames and John Harding, right middle and bottom, work on skills.

60 myopia polo 2018

nament for the Stones Throw Farm team on Winthrop Field at Myopia. “As a result of the coaching and everything I learned in the Coaching League, I felt fairly confident heading into the four-goal tournament last summer,” she says. Then came the first major highlight of her competitive polo career. “Scoring the first goal in the first game

was a highlight,” Ames says, while laughing. “And it was completely by accident. We were playing against Stage Hill and I was following up my teammate Jim Jones, who got hooked right in front of the goal. I came up behind him, saw the ball come free and tapped it over the line. I was just riding cleanup duty behind him, but I’ll take it.” The Coaching League players run through photographs by marilyn caradonna

drills, practice new skills and learn to reinforce good habits. Instructors and pros also take ample time to ensure they match the appropriate horse with the rider—a detail that helped Ames’ game dramatically. This past season, her second in the Myopia Coaching League, Ames bought her first horse—an 8-year-old Argentinean polo pony named Salva Vidas (“Life Saver.”) “In December of 2015 I had a bad fall from a horse and broke my arm,” she says. “I was out for six months. When I came back I was scared. I needed some help mentally and physically getting back into the saddle. I turned to Federico Wulff to help train me. Salva Vidas was the horse he put me on to rehab me. It was an awesome relationship and a year later I was able to bring her home.” There are a number of ways to measure the success of the program, and according to its leaders, those goals are being met by players, horses and coaches alike. “Basically, you want players to move up into tournament level polo,” Maguire says. “They get engaged more, they buy more horses—you want your players to get better. “And it’s when you see your players go out and represent the structure they’ve been taught. You see them taking care of the horses properly because that’s what we’ve shown them. I love to see that.” The track flows naturally from learning to Coaching League to tournament play. A Saturday player becomes a Sunday player, and the sport, the culture and the club remains healthy and vital. “It helps by increasing our numbers,” Maguire says. “It ensures polo will remain nice and strong and healthy in our area.” At the same time, players can remain at the Coaching League level for as long as they like. “We want people to feel like they can play at any level they want to,” Ames says. “Some get to the Coaching League and stay at the Coaching League—no pressure. Some want to play those great Sunday games at Myopia, or even just polish their skills so they can play while they’re traveling to California or Texas or Florida. The great thing about the Myopia program is that it’s set

up to get you to where you want to go.” The Myopia Polo Coaching League also dovetails nicely with its Interscholastic League, which is primarily made up of upcoming middle and high school players. Where Interscholastic players will often ride loaned horses, Coaching League players quite typically lease or buy their own mounts as they increase their commitment to the sport. Another differentiator between the Coaching League and tournament play is the sense of camaraderie that develops as players grow and improve. While it is competitive, there is a bond among players that is unique to the setting. “As they say, ‘four legs, a tail and a big heart,’ and for most people it’s just that,” Maguire says. “They get on, play some polo, and when someone makes a screaming back shot everyone is happy. It’s so organic at that level. Everyone will offer a ‘great shot!’ Everyone in the Coaching League is happy when others improve. And then they carry those good feelings and momentum forward. The Coaching League is so different from everything else. People are happy to be on horses and having a good time.” There is a seriousness to the proceedings, however. (“We have rules, and if you follow that, you’ll become a leader,” Maguire says.) Because in the end, it’s about improving. Goals for this season include running through more drills and set plays and taking part in white pants and uniform matches each Saturday. “To see players progress is awesome,” Maguire says. “I feel good for them, they feel good about it—it’s great to see them flying around and wanting them all to get better than me. And it’s great to provide that platform.” The other reward is when someone from Myopia carries the club’s philosophy, approach and sportsmanship with them—an underlying benefit of playing with the Coaching League. “It’s a direct reflection on how the club wants our players to act,” Maguire says. “These people could go play anywhere in the world, and we want to ensure that people can expect a certain thing when they hear they’re from Myopia.” 2018 myopia polo 61

along for

a visual chronicle of the most thrilling moments of myopiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high-flying 2017 season. / Photographs by Andrew Katsampes

62 myopia polo 2018

the ride!

alon g fo r t he r i d e

alo ng f o r the r ide

the r ules riding, rough or abusive play, improper use of the mallet and unsportsmanlike conduct.

Dangerous situations and injuries usually result in a violation of the rules, and it is the responsibility of the two mounted umpires and the referee on the sidelines to maintain order on the field.

DANGEROUS RIDING

A foul which occurs when a player executes an improper or dangerous ride-off, zig zags in front of another player traveling at speed, slides across the back legs of another player’s horse close enough so there is a risk one or both horses could trip, rides an opponent across the rightof way of an oncoming player at an unsafe distance, deliberately rides his horse into the swing of another player, or generally exhibits a disregard for the safety of other players or their horses. IMPROPER USE OF THE MALLET

A foul occurs when a player executes an improper hook, such as high hook (above the shoulder), a cross hook (from the other side of the horse) or a slash hook (excessive force); or uses a mallet in a way that endangers his mount, an opponent, an opponent’s mount, an umpire or a spectator. PENALTY

The rules of polo are simple and designed to keep the game flowing and to protect the horses from injury.

The result of a called foul or infraction of the rules. The umpire imposes a penalty to either compensate the other team for the loss of advantage or to sufficiently penalize the fouling team for a rule violation which did not cause a disadvantage to the opponent, such as unsportsmanlike conduct. Penalties range in severity from taking possession of the ball from a team and bowling it in to ejecting a player from the game.

APPEALING FOR A FOUL

FOUL

RIGHT-OF WAY

Trying to influence the call of an umpire, most often done by lifting the mallet up in the air. Appealing for a foul is itself a foul, though seldom called.

A foul is an infraction of the rules. The most common types of fouls are right-of-way infractions, walking the ball, turning the ball, dangerous

The right-of-way is best thought of as a highway, with the line of the ball creating the center line. The player traveling in the direction of the ball, »

Law and Order

68 myopia polo 2018

photographs by andrew katsampes

CREATING ENVIRONMENTS FOR LIFE.

PORTSMOUTH, NH 603-373-8562 WWW.FIORENTINOGROUP.COM

the r ules

with the ball on his offside and at the least angle to it, generally has the right-of-way over the other players. When the player’s progress to the ball within that right-of-way is improperly impeded, a foul is called. Examples of right-of-way violations include entering the right-of-way at an unsafe distance or speed (comparable to cutting in from an onramp while driving too slowly), crossing over the line of the ball in front of someone on the right-of-way, stopping on the ball or one player meeting two. ROUGH OR ABUSIVE PLAY

A foul which occurs when a player abuses his horse, another player or another player’s horse. This can include seizing or striking with the hand, elbow, head, mallet or whip. SAFETY

A foul which occurs when a defending team hits the ball over its own 70 myopia polo 2018

A foul is an infraction of the rules. The most common types of fouls are right-of-way infractions, walking the ball, turning the ball, dangerous riding, rough or abusive play, improper use of the mallet and unsportsmanlike conduct.

end line. When a safety occurs, the attacking team is awarded a Penalty 6, which is a defended penalty shot from 60 yards out and perpendicular to the end line at the spot the ball went over the end line. TURNING THE BALL

Technically known in the USPA rules as a Quick Line Change, turning the ball is when a player slows down dramatically and changes the line in a very small space. When defended, this is a foul. Until recently, this rule was rarely enforced. In the last several years, all three major associations have begun enforcing the rule to create a more open and flowing game. To distinguish between running a turn, which is not a foul, and turning the ball, which is a foul when the player is defended, you must look at the distance between the player with the ball and the defender. When running a turn, the distance between the two

players does not close. When turning the ball, that distance closes quickly and is therefore considered unsafe. UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

A foul which occurs when a player uses vulgar or abusive language; is disrespectful to another player, coach, umpire or spectator; argues with an umpire; delays the game by feigning injury or requesting an unnecessary tack time-out; or appeals for a foul, especially by windmilling his mallet. WALKING THE BALL

Carrying the ball while slowed down to a walk. In outdoor polo, this is a foul for delay of game. When called, it results in a throw-in at the spot of the infraction. In arena polo, the player must maintain “reasonable pace” when along the wall. There is no rule governing pace in the arena when not along the walls. Compiled from USPolo.org.

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A Family Affair

The Millers, Myopia, and a family’s connection to polo. there are times when kurt and reed miller are galloping down Gibney field during a polo match and Jackie Miller has a difficult time discerning which one is her husband and which is her son. “When they go down field it’s hard to tell them apart,” Jackie Miller says. “They both have a similar way about them on a horse—a natural ability.” Given the family’s lineage, it’s a reasonable miscalculation. Kurt Miller, who is currently in his 52nd consecutive season at Myopia, paved the way for his 16-year-old son, a student at Hamilton-Wenham Regional High School. “My father always played, and I thought, ‘wow, dad’s playing—I should play with him,’” Reed Miller says. “He seemed to always have fun.” Now a third-generation polo player who grew up around the club, Reed could be found toddling around the grounds every Sunday, knocking a ball around with a foot mallet, or pulling a wagon filled with polo magazines. “I remember every single Sunday 72 myopia polo 2018

for almost my entire life we were at Sunday polo,” Reed Miller says. “My dad would be playing, and my best friend Grace Grotnik would be there, too, and we’d all spend every Sunday together.” As he grew older, Jackie and Kurt Miller decided to see if polo was something Reed wanted to pursue. After learning the sport in the junior program at Stage Hill Polo, he teamed up with his father on his Longmeadow team for the duo’s first tournament together. “Parts of me were nervous,” Jackie Miller says. “But in their very first tournament together, they ended up winning. It couldn’t have gone better. It was unexpected and I was so proud of them and I was so happy to see Reed have such a good experience with it.” During that particular match, Reed fell, and had to get back up to finish— after doing so, he scored a goal on a penalty shot. It’s just the type of play his father will remember. As someone who is known for his

Father and son team, Kurt and Reed Miller, continue a long family tradition in Myopia polo.

exemplary horsemanship, his love of top Chilean horses and his ability to hit the ball hard and ride fast, it’s those types of details that catch his eye—and his competitive spirit. But it’s the familial connection that leaves an impression. “You get to meet people of all ages and you get to meet the whole family,” Kurt Miller says. “When there’s a gathering, it’s expected that the children and everyone is there.” It’s an appropriate sentiment, given the Millers’ connection to Myopia. “Kurt and I met in the pavilion about 20 years ago,” Jackie Miller says. “He wanted to meet me, so he asked a friend to introduce us. He asked me out for coffee, but I told him I was going to (former Myopia polo player) Charlie Cole’s house. Kurt said, ‘I’ve known Charlie for 35 years—he won’t mind if I come along!’” Kurt was honored two years ago for having played 50 consecutive seasons. Jackie, an equestrian who has played some ladies’ polo, can often be spotted on the sidelines photographing the action or helping with events like the Polo Ball. Reed, captain of the Myopia Interscholastic team, is the third generation to play the sport at Myopia. Colby helped out at the gate or with flagging. And Kurt’s daughters Beth and Lindsay were often around the field as well. That meeting at the pavilion expanded an already long association between the family and Myopia, perhaps most noticeable during polo season as Reed joins Kurt on the field. “We wanted him to learn the things the sport can teach you,” Jackie Miller says. “There’s a sense of accomplishment and a sense of pride of strength and ability. We wanted him to have that connection with his dad. We spend so much time at the polo fields so we wanted him to have that real connection to it.”

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