2023 Santa Barbara Polo Magazine

DANA ZERTUCHE & LORI BOWLES

MAGAZINE

PRODUCTION

PRESIDENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Megan Kozminski

ART DIRECTOR

Travis Sarvas www.sarvasdesigncompany.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Emily Hurst

PHOTOGRAPHY

David Lominska www.polographics.com

Kerri Kerley www.kkerley.smugmug.com

Michelle Lauren www.michellelauren.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Mia Bray, Maria Cabrera, Maren Cukor, Monica Finley, Hayley Heatley Bray, Alex Green, Melanja Jones, Lisa Muirhead/ Poise Publications, David Sigman

Santa Barbara Polo Magazine is the annual publication of Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. For advertising enquiries, email megan@mediaspur.com.

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission of the Publisher is strictly prohibited.

© 2023 Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club 3300 Via Real, Carpinteria, CA 93013

www.sbpolo.com | (805) 684-6683

TRUSTEES

Trustee President Chuck Lande

Glen Holden Jr., Pat Nesbitt, Geoff Palmer, Pat Ringer, Wesley Ru, Michael Sheller, Daniel Walker, Henry Walker

TRUSTEES OF DISTINCTION

Ambassador Glen Holden, Dr. Norman Ringer, Kenneth Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President John Muse | Vice President Rhys Williams

Treasurer Kevin Nimmons | Secretary David Sigman

Daniel Walker, Leigh Brecheen, Justin Klentner, Michele Saltoun Neely

STAFF

General Manager David Sigman

Polo Manager Melanja Jones

Polo Academy Director Jeff Scheraga

Facility Manager Sergio Jaramillo

Controller Ray Cano Jr.

Tennis Director Stephanie Stone

Sponsorship & Event Manager Maria Cabrera

Polo Clubhouse Manager Martin Navaro

Barn Manager Judith Baker

Assistant Polo Manager Mia Bray

Tennis Clubhouse & Membership Manager Monica Finley

Ticketing & Social Member Manager Jessika Pappas

Photographer & Social Media Manager Michelle Lauren

AP & Accounting Kristina Martinez

Tennis Ambassador Bart Hillock

Head Tennis Pro Lance Kronberg

Tennis Pro Sara Scott

Tennis Pro Byron Wu

Swim Instructor Tiffanie Wright

FIELDSIDE

General Managers Michael & Lisa Amador

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President’s Message

To Santa Barbara Polo Club enthusiasts,

We look forward to an active spring and summer season, with Coaching League in April ramping up to our fully subscribed 12-goal tournaments in May and June. The summer is our busiest time of the year with both the 20-goal in full swing, as well as our 8-goal Rincon League. It should be a very competitive season, similar to last year when many games were decided by one goal or in overtime. We are welcoming back many tournament and corporate sponsors, and our social membership has attracted new members.

The Tennis Clubhouse is bustling with programs, mixers, tournaments, and summer camps. New members, as well as past members, are enjoying the renovated facilities and newly resurfaced courts. We look forward to seeing you all down at our pools and our fitness center, enjoying the amazing Santa Barbara weather.

We are very excited about our new restaurant, spearheaded by renowned local chef and member Michael Amador. Fieldside Coastal Steakhouse will offer a new take on local fare and is open to members as well as the public.

During the polo season, our much-loved Happy Hours and dinners will be back in full swing. Remember to pay them a visit and take in the picturesque views of our polo grounds.

We look forward to welcoming all of you back for a very active season of polo. Please visit our website for more information on tournament schedules and ticket reservations.

Sincerely,

JOHN MUSE President, Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club

RHYS WILLIAMS Vice President

K EVIN NIMMONS Treasurer

DANIEL WALKER Board Member

LEIGH BRECHEEN Board Member

MICHELE SALTOUN-NEELY Board Member

JUSTIN KLENTNER Board Member

DAVID SIGMAN General Manager

TOURNAMENT SPONSORS

SEASON SPONSORS

CLUB PARTNERS

From the Polo Manager

Legacy. For a sport centered on an ephemeral connection with horses and teammates, polo has a rich tradition of legacy building. We play the oldest team sport. We fight to preserve our emerald fields. And we name tournaments in recognition of great players of the past like Robert Skene, as well as those who managed the club and promoted the sport, such as Lisle Nixon.

For some, their legacy is a son or daughter, who steps up to play the next level. We have many family teams at our club; many of the names on the scoreboard are in their second or even third generation. Others pay it forward by teaching new players who have never encountered polo (or even horses) how to enjoy the sport of kings, and how to appreciate the amazing horses that take them to the ball.

Horses are 80% of the game, and we have sent horses out to the wide world of polo that have been instrumental in winning major tournaments. Chocolate and Silverada, two of the three Americanbred horses to win the Lady Susan Townley Cup for Best Playing Pony in the Argentine Open, have Santa Barbara connections. A different version of excellence is demonstrated by those special ponies who take new players to the next level: the stalwart Rocky and Reina of the Polo Academy have produced a legacy of confident riders emerging from the Polo Academy.

The most impactful legacy of all those names on the trophies held up in victory photos is an appreciation of a way of life. While we honor the past and those who made Polo in Paradise possible, we sustain ourselves by looking forward to the future. How can we help you build your polo legacy?

Sincerely,

MELANJA JONES Polo Manager

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Family Matters

Polo brings people and families together from around the world.

Colorado native Sierra Dunbar and Uruguayan Juan Curbelo met at Eldorado Polo Club in 2017. Curbelo, who first started playing professionally in California at the age of 16, popped the question at the 2022 Pacific Coast Open finals, making it a truly memorable day at the polo club. Juan and Sierra were married in late March at Cavallo Ranch in Thermal: a gorgeous celeb destination owned by fellow polo player John Bickford. Our very own David Sigman served as the officiant of the ceremony, and the day went off with, and without, a hitch!

The Santa Barbara Polo family also recently welcomed several next-generation members. Pipe Vercellino and his wife Gordi welcomed their daughter Roberta this past December. Remy Du

Inside The Lines

Celliee Muller and wife Tica Bengston also welcomed their son Hugo in December. Celeste and Santi von Wernich welcomed baby Benja in November, and Kristen and Jim Wright welcomed their second daughter Elinore in June 2022. Celebrating their first birthdays this past year were Jesse and Hayley Bray’s daughter Dorothy, Ben and Gemina Soleimani’s daughter Carmel, Kristen and Jim Wright’s daughter Anamarie, and Anita Avendano and Santi Wulff’s son Lucas.

The club also welcomed new family members to the staff team. Michael and Lisa Amador have renovated and put a coastal spin on a classic steakhouse-inspired menu under the polo clubhouse’s historic roof. Join them at Fieldside Restaurant for lunch or dinner Wednesday through Sunday.

Carley Ann Photography

Celebrating Lisle Nixon

The Lisle Nixon tournament at SBPRC was recently designated an official memorial tournament under the USPA Legacy Series. Established in 1978, the annual tournament is named for the muchloved Lisle Nixon, who was hired in 1976 as manager of the Santa Barbara Polo Club. Nixon was a 3-goal player from Butte, Montana, who was known for his excellent management of polo clubs, including Eldorado, Midland, Willowbend, and Santa Barbara.

Sadly, Nixon passed away doing what he loved most – playing polo –and so a tournament in his honor is only fitting. “Lisle Nixon was a true gentleman who understood what was important to polo clubs. He was the kind of old-fashioned polo player who would help out in all sorts of ways to make polo happen,” remembers Corky Linfoot.

The 2022 Lisle Nixon Memorial saw the Los Padres team take on Mokarow Farms in an epic battle on Stadium Field. The Los Padres team of Keko Magrini, Juan Guerrero, Nacho Figueras and Prince Harry were victorious in overtime; it was a memorable day of polo on so many levels.

The Legacy Series status of the Lisle Nixon Memorial means that, moving forward, the winning team will receive Rich Roenisch bronzes, and the runners up will receive Balding bits. The 2023 tournament kicks off on May 26 and promises to be a highly contested event for many seasons to come.

INSIDE THE LINES

FIELDSIDE

Long-time restauranteurs and club members Michael and Lisa Amador have had their eye on the polo Clubhouse's field-side dining venue for years. Now Executive Chef and Manager, Chef Michael’s vision for the destination fills the void of a steakhouse in the nearby area. At the same time, the venue’s unique location inspires an elevated California menu. The result is something truly unique: coastal steakhouse cuisine.

Now referred to simply as Fieldside, the restaurant’s menu showcases seafood, the best cuts of meat, and produce direct from local farms. The name of the game is fresh, bright flavors that allow the simplicity of their quality ingredients to shine. One of the chef’s favorite items is the woven salmon and halibut, served on top of a basil beurre blanc. He also insists that there’s nothing quite like the wow factor of the porterhouse steak: Fieldside’s 24-ounce version is a head-turner!

Having elevated the food as well as the ambience of the historic polo Clubhouse, the Amadors look forward to welcoming members and the public for special nights out or relaxed family dinners. Not to be missed is the Sunday night fried chicken special—a highly requested carryover from Michael’s last restaurant, it’s rumored to be the best comfort food in Santa Barbara.

Come out and enjoy a table-side Caesar salad, fresh Pacific oysters, our amazing rib-eye burger, or an unforgettably huge steak!

Chef Michael Amador

CHEF’S FAVORITES

INGREDIENT: Cheese... all sorts of cheese! I just love all the different opportunities cheese presents.

KITCHEN INSTRUMENT: Tasting spoons. I’m constantly tasting dishes and encouraging my staff to do the same.

MEAL ON THE RUN: A classic burger.

REGIONAL CUISINE: I like to eat Italian. But I like to cook Asian – there are so many intricacies of this cuisine that I am slowly learning about.

LOCAL HAUNT: Ca’Dario, the food is great and we can walk from home.

Polo Academy

The Polo Academy at SBPRC operates year-round and at multiple levels, enabling youth and adults to enjoy the sport of kings no matter their experience or skill level.

The Next Gen

The Polo Academy’s interscholastic and UCSB intercollegiate players spend all year riding sets, practicing drills, and going to the hitting cage to improve their skills. The interscholastic and intercollegiate teams compete in USPA-sanctioned arena tournaments in the winter, which emphasize teamwork and horsemanship. Thanks to their hard work and fantastic coaches, Claudia Uretz and Jeff Scheraga, both teams made it into USPA Regionals! This was a great accomplishment, as some of the players on the UCSB team had no prior experience with horses or polo before they started university.

Alumni from the collegiate programs become an important part of the club community. Maggie Hine was the Westmont College team captain and now helps teach lessons at the Polo Academy. Her fiancé, Julian Amador, is a long time member, and his dad Michael Amador runs Fieldside restaurant. Maggie admits that it is hard to find a day when they don’t end up at the club since it is a second home to both of them. Cory Williams, another successful graduate from the interscholastic and intercollegiate ranks, is an active playing member who also assists in the polo office and mentors young players. The future is bright with grads like Maggie and Cory in our midst.

Community Building

The Polo Academy has a special way of creating a community of lifelong polo enthusiasts. The polo and riding instructors are experts in transitioning beginner riders into Pro Pool players. A combination of lessons, clinics, and coaching games can help you become the polo player of your dreams!

Santa Barbara local Paige Marshall arrived at the Polo Academy with a background in show jumping. Paige credits the academy program for giving her all the tools and confidence she needed to become a competitive player: “Progressing through the polo academy is seamless and empowering. Jeff Scheraga and his team can facilitate a custom experience tailored to the skills and goals of every player. Starting out two years ago, I could have only dreamed of owning my own pony and participating in Pro Pool with riders of varying ages, talents, and histories coming together to be humbled by our shared passion for horses and sport.”

To get started on your polo journey, contact: Jeff Scheraga, Polo Academy Director | (805) 755-8234 | jeff@sbpolo.com

Image by Lori Essence

- Rhys Williams

BY EMILY HURST

Year round, Bayne Bossom has polo on his mind. The 21-year-old California-native plays at his home club in Santa Barbara over the spring and summer months and spends his winters at Eldorado Polo Club in the desert. Recently, he added Argentina to his annual polo calendar and hopes to continue to play there each fall.

Bayne dedicates all his time to his horses and to improving his game, and this past year, it really paid off. Now rated 3 goals, Bayne won a series of 8- and 12-goal tournaments and received MVP accolades in the 2022 USPA President’s Cup. Emily

explores

journey towards going pro in polo.

Hurst

Bayne’s

What do love most about polo?

BB: I love that I can share the sport with my brother Piers, and I also really love the horses. The reason I play polo is the horses. I spend every day with them, and it always feels great to go out on the field together.

Who are youR mentors, and what have been the most important lessons?

BB: I have learned a lot from professional players that I have been on teams with. One of my biggest transitions was understanding the strategy involved and flow of the game at a higher level. Jesse Bray really helped me with this. Santi Trotz opened my eyes to play development and everything off the ball – helping me understand what to do when I’m not playing the ball has been huge for my overall game and confidence. Santi Wulff taught me the importance of anticipation, watching others and planning my reaction according to how both my opponents and teammates play. Coaching from Corky Linfoot and Eric Wright also helped me a lot. Those are just a few of the people that come to mind!

What are your must-visit polo destinations?

BB: Well, if you want to be a really good polo player, you’ve got to go down and play in Argentina. The highest level of polo we play in the USA is half of the highest level they play in Argentina. The average level and style of polo are so different there, you’ve got to experience it.

I have also played in England, which is fun. It’s pretty there –the only downside is that sometimes it rains...which isn’t fun. The Hamptons in New York is beautiful also. I’ve never played there but I’ve been to the polo club, and it’s very nice. Finally, Indio is great because they have 15 fields all within minutes of each other. It’s totally polo focused. Sure, you can play golf or tennis, but polo is king.

How did you get started in the sport?

BB: My parents got me started in horses and polo. My mom was a racehorse trainer and an avid jumper, she taught me how to ride. I jumped and rode English for a couple of years before my dad, who was a polo player, taught me how to play. I never looked back.

Do you have a favorite pony?

BB: Tricky question! It’s like trying to pick your favorite pet and friend! That said, I have a grey mare, her name is Dirty Girl. When I’m running with the ball to goal on her, no one can catch me – it’s the best feeling! My other favorite is Lechugita because with her it doesn’t matter who tries to bump me – no one can beat her.

What are your polo goals for the future?

BB: I haven’t told this to anyone yet... but I’d love to play in the Argentine Open with my brother Piers. So that’s what I’m working towards!

What’s your favorite place to play?

BB: Santa Barbara. It’s paradise. You have the ocean a stone’s throw away from the fields, and everything is close by. We get up, work the horses in the morning, play polo, and afterward we grab surfboards and head to the beach. There’s a nice little town where you can go and have a quiet dinner with family or friends. Or you can go downtown which is also close – there are a bunch of things nearby, which is great! 

2021 Winner Lisle Nixon Memorial with BenSoleimani.com team

2022 Winner Malibu Cup with Folded Hills/Zahedi Chogan team

2022 Winner Polo Training Center Santa Barbara Tournament with FMB team

2023 Winner & MVP Mack & Madelyn Jason Memorial Tournament with Pau Hana team

highlight reel

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Cuphea ‘Hummingbird’s Lunch’

YEARS

For over 25 years, PlantHaven International has been the world’s leading agency for independent plant breeders around the globe, and we are based right here in sunny Santa Barbara.

YEARS

You can find PlantHaven varieties throughout the grounds at the Santa Barbara Polo Club or at your local Home Depot so you can create your own garden paradise.

Look for ‘Cuphea Hummingbird’s Lunch’ It’s the perfect plant for naturally attracting hummingbirds to your garden.

The natural way to attract a team of hummingbirds to your garden.

The Coveted Cup

The Silver Cup has an illustrious 122-year history as one of the most prized trophies recognized across North America. The Cup has been played at the most prestigious clubs in the U.S., including Houston, Greenwich, Willow Bend, New Bridge, and Aspen Valley Polo Clubs. In 2011 and again in 2020, the tournament was awarded to Santa Barbara Polo Club, where it remains one of the mostly highly contested annual high-goal trophies.

Courtesy of the Museum of Polo & Hall of Fame

“A Silver Cup win puts you into polo history.”

Justin Klentner

The Early Years

In 1900, Samuel D. Warren, a prominent Boston attorney and a founder of the Dedham Polo Club, commissioned a sterling silver trophy by Bigelow, Kennard & Company of Boston. He created the trophy to encourage players with lower handicaps to become more active and competitive in major polo events. The trophy, first known as the Samuel D. Warren Cup, was for the winner of the championship, open to teams whose combined handicap was 20 goals or less, with players with personal handicaps of six goals or less.

The first championship took place in 1901 at Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York, and the trophy soon became known as the Junior Championship. In its earliest years, it attracted historic teams like Rockaway, Cooperstown, Bryn Mawr, Meadow Brook, and Old Aiken.

In 1935, the Junior Championship boasted the largest field in the tournament’s history, with 11 teams vying for the trophy at Burnt Mills Polo Club in New Jersey. A few years later, in 1938, the championship was renamed the National Twenty Goal. From 1940 through 1973, the tournament was hosted by Milwaukee Polo Club, and for a portion of those years (1964 to 1973), it was played as a 16-goal event.

Silver Status

In 1974, the tournament relocated to Willow Bend Polo Club in Dallas, and the name was changed to its present-day form: the Silver Cup. For the next 22 years, the tournament was played in the Southwest circuit, moving from Dallas to San Antonio to Oklahoma and finally to Houston.

In 2007, the Silver Cup moved again to New Bridge in Aiken, then to Santa Barbara in 2011, and back to the East Coast at Greenwich Polo Club in 2017. Before landing back in Santa Barbara in 2020, the Cup was played for the first time in Colorado, at the Aspen Valley Polo Club.

Santa Barbara-based Silver Cup winners include Lucchese in 2012, 2014, and 2020; Farmers & Merchants Bank in 2013, 2015, and 2016; Klentner Ranch in 2021; and BenSoleimani.com in 2022. “To compete for the Silver Cup is a privilege, and to win the Silver Cup creates a team legacy with a lifetime memory. Everyone who has won the Silver Cup remembers their team and the final match. It is an amazing and rewarding feeling of accomplishment,” suggests Dan Walker, 3-time winner. 

HistoryMakers

More than 50 polo Hall of Famers have won the Silver Cup.

Ray Harrington Jr. and Charles Smith are the all-time leading winners of the trophy, with eight wins each.

In 2004, Leigh Anne Hall, playing with Pueblo Viejo, became the first woman to win the Silver Cup. Maureen Brennan, with Goose Creek, is the only woman to have won the Silver Cup twice.

PassPort to the World

One of Winston Churchill’s most famous quotes suggests that “a polo handicap is a passport to the world,” and for many local polo players and professionals, this dictum is a reality indeed. Throughout the year, many Santa Barbara players and members pack their polo gear and fly off to exciting U.S. and international destinations that offer polo games, tournaments, superior polo ponies, and of course, the ultimate polo lifestyle.

Image by Pablo Salast

Austr AliA

Along with their young daughter Dorothy, Hayley and Jesse Bray spent 4 weeks on an exciting polo trip to New South Wales in Australia this past October. Jesse played the 16-Goal Spring Tournament Series at the famed Ellerston and Garangula polo clubs.

Their first stop was Timor Polo. Owned by the Aguirre Family, the expansive ranch is home to a cattle and polo breeding operation. Located alongside a picturesque river, Timor Station provided a scenic base for Jesse’s team, AZ Polo, who utilized the nearby Scone Polo Club for practices leading up to their first tournament games.

An hour’s drive through the scenic Australian countryside from Timor is Ellerston Polo Club, which boasts an award-winning golf course, as well as cattle and equine breeding. The Ellerston experience is immersive. Being remote, most players and horses live on-site for the duration of the tournament, taking advantage of the club’s field side café, Clubhouse, and amenities. Jesse’s team made it to the Ellerston Spring Trophy Final, falling just short of the home team, Ellerston White; a memory of the trip that ranks among Jesse’s favorites. “It was a great experience. Several of my distant cousins and relatives were also playing at Ellerston. It was fun to catch up with them,” Bray comments.

The second stop, Garangula Polo Club, was equally as beautiful, nestled amongst mature trees and rolling fields. Jesse and Hayley enjoyed the hotel-style housing, a great café and nearby pub, and some unique local wildlife: “We saw a wombat, which was really rare, and tons of kangaroos and wallabies!”

Overall, their experience Down Under was one that they would love to do again. “It’s a very player-centric region, and the games are fast, competitive, and wide open. Australia does old school polo just right,” concludes Jesse.

Aspen

Not timid of a little windchill and a lot of snow, player Sarah Siegel Magness loves to jet off to Aspen for the World Snow Polo Championship every December. Hosted by the Aspen Valley Polo Club, and held at Rio Grande Park, the annual event attacts top-level sponsors such as the St. Regis, Richard Mille, NetJets, and Edmiston Yachts, as well as celebrity spectators such as Kate Hudson, Mariah Carey, and Anna Kendrick.

Snow polo originated in St. Moritz, Switzerland, in 1985 and has been growing in popularity ever since, attracting thousands of spectators and top players from around the world. Aspen is the exclusive destination for snow polo in North America, and it's an event that Magness looks forward to all year: “The food, the landscape, and the polo never disappoint. Melissa Ganzi gives patrons the chance to play with 10 goal players in the snow. It’s my favorite time of year in Aspen.”

Image by Sarah Ebbett

engl A nd

One of the most prestigious polo tournaments outside of Argentina is the Queen’s Cup, played annually at Guard’s Polo Club. The Queen presented the trophy to Guards in 1960, and the historic tournament has been the epitome of the British high-goal polo season ever since.

Prince Phillip competed in 1964 and 1966, and Prince Charles won the trophy in 1986. Joining the royal ranks is Santa Barbara player Ben Soleimani, who competed in the Queen’s Cup for several seasons before earning the highest honor: the trophy presented by her Royal Highness the Queen, in 2017.

Soleimani, a British citizen, won the Queen's Cup alongside teammates Adolfo Cambiaso, Rodrigo Andrade, and Tomas Beresford. It was a memorable day and an exciting win decided in the very last moments of the game, which came hauntingly close to sudden-death overtime. The 2017 Queen’s Cup was Soleimani’s first Queen’s Cup win, but hopefully not his last.

A rgentinA

For every polo player, a chance to play at Palermo in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the ultimate career goal. Recently, Mia Bray made her dream come true, traveling to Argentina to play in arguably the best women’s polo tournament in the world: the Women’s Argentine Open.

Established in 2017, the Women’s Open takes place at the Argentine Polo Association fields in Pilar, and the finals are played at Palermo in early December (on the same day as the Argentine Open Finals). Mia reports that the most memorable part of her trip were the horses and the thrilling competition: “Getting the chance to play polo with and against the best women in the world was an amazing experience. I’ll never forget some of the outstanding polo horses I had the opportunity to play. Once the tournament was over, a few of us packed our bags and toured around Argentina and Patagonia. I can’t wait to go back!”

chile

The Club de Polo y Equitation San Cristobal is located just minutes from downtown Santiago and sits against the breathtaking backdrop of the Andes mountains. The club is 75 years old and you can feel the history when you walk through the doors. This past February, Michelle and Tanner Ebbin had the honor of experiencing this historic club in the heart of Chile. “It was the club’s 30th Annual International Youth Tournament and, every year, each local player invites another player around their age from another country to play with them. Most of the kids were from South America (Argentina, Colombia, Peru), and I was the only one invited from the USA. Everyone at the Club de Polo was so generous and I felt like part of their community,” reports Tanner.

The trip was also an experience of a lifetime for Tanner’s mom Michelle. “Chile is a spectacular country, and to see it through the lens of polo was extra special. I saw first-hand how polo can bring together people from different cultures and with different languages. Even though there was a language barrier, the kids quickly learned how to communicate on and off the field. Tanner came away from this tournament with friends from all over South America that he will keep in touch with and will, hopefully, see again soon!"

For Tanner, the highlight of the trip was winning his first match. For Michelle, it was a sunset ride along an ocean cliff with horses running wild alongside them and watching Tanner score goals and enthusiastically call out “Dale!” to his teammates.

FrA nce

For Matt and Karen Yonally, there is almost nothing better than exploring the streets of Paris, their second home. “We love the architecture, the music, the food, the wine, the history, and the people. For many years our favorite pastime has been just strolling in the city.”

But Matt is in love with more than the streets of Paris – he is also fanatical about polo in nearby Chantilly. The club’s roots go back to 1560 when the grand Château de Chantilly was built for Anne de Montmorency. In the early 20th century, Baron de Rothschild began organizing polo games with friends, and Patrick Hermes later formally solidified the club’s identity, building it into one of the premier polo venues in the world.

Yonally has been playing at the Chantilly Polo Club for 15 years and looks forward to each season: “It’s like going home and seeing old friends. Phillipe Perrier and his son Benoit do an amazing job of organizing world-class polo all season long, while also maintaining a warm, welcoming, small club feel,” Yonally suggests.

One of his favorite polo memories is winning the French Championships: the final was held at the legendary Polo de Paris in the Bois de Boulogne. When polo was a part of the Olympics in 1900, the final was played on that very field! “To have a polo life in Paris has added another wonderful layer of richness to our world there. We’ve been incredibly blessed.” 

Images by Pablo Salast

Carmen

FEBRUARY 11, 2024

Zorro

2024

Our Community

Outstanding members define our club. From generations of polo players to tennis mixer fanatics, to swim and gym devotees, our community of members is thriving and inspiring. Here we get to know members Monica Williams and Chris and Mindy Denson, who reveal, amongst other things, that it is never too late to learn a new sport, and that there is no such thing as too many barn BBQs.

Monica Williams

Monica first joined the club as a social member in 2015. At the time she called Newport Beach home and visited the club only on weekends. Each weekend, she drove away from Santa Barbara, the question plagued her: why am I leaving this paradise? A few years later, Monica permanently relocated and, shortly thereafter, she met the love her life, her husband Brooke.

An avid golfer and horse enthusiast, Monica dabbled in show jumping and 3-day eventing but neither seemed like a fit for her. At her good friend Deb Richards’ suggestion, Monica and Deb tried their first polo lesson together, and like so many before her, she was hooked! Now an enthusiastic participant in the academy’s Coaching League, Monica invested in a polo pony and is excited to eventually have a string of ponies.

Monica’s passion for polo extends beyond the field. An experienced fundraiser for non-profit organizations she approached Polo Training Center Director Jeff Scheraga and declared: “You need me to help you raise money!” Jeff heartily agreed and Monica became an active PTCSB fundraiser and club volunteer. Over the past few years, she has chaired numerous successful events and is a member of multiple club committees.

Away from the field, Monica dedicates her time to Opera Santa Barbara as a Board Member and enthusiastic concertgoer: “I never miss an opera, concert or event,” she admits. In her professional life, Monica devotes herself to multi-generational and legacy planning with Stifel Investments in Santa Barbara and Newport. A 24-year veteran of the financial services industry, she brings the same enthusiasm and dedication to her work as she does to the polo club. And often she combines the two: hosting business colleagues, friends, and clientele at Sunday polo is one of her absolute favorite things to do.

Monica and husband Brooke, with French bulldogs Sadie and Sophie

The Densons

For years, Chris and Mindy Denson’s favorite place to vacation was Miramar. Hailing from Oregon and Cleveland, respectively, the couple decided to make their beloved vacation spot into their permanent home in 2005, and it was one of the best decisions they ever made.

The Densons were first introduced to the club by their good friends Jeep Holden and the Walkers. They enjoyed attending Sunday polo and decided to join the club as tennis members. Somehow, they renewed their tennis membership for 8 years without hitting the court even once!

Now with more time on their hands, the Densons are regulars in tennis leagues and at polo events. What has kept them coming back to the club for so many years? “We just have so much fun!” Mindy exclaims. Their box at Sunday polo is always busy with guests; they love hosting visitors and sharing the sport with newcomers. The Tuesday Night Tennis league, Saturday morning gym workouts, and club mixers are a few of their other favorite club activities.

Similar to Monica Williams, Mindy took up polo just a few years ago. As an adult with no experience, she admits there is a steep learning curve, but coaches Jeff Scheraga and Claudia Uretz make learning the sport easy and fun. Chris is no stranger to the horse world, having grown up working in a feed store, but he’s happy to sit back and let Mindy take the reins: “I know how much horses cost to feed, and I’m allergic to hay AND mucking stalls,” admits Chris.

The Densons are both enthusiastic and active club volunteers. They participate with the youth polo program, working as timers and scorekeepers at tournament events. Mindy is also a member of the Polo Training Center committee and an active fundraiser. One of her favorite annual events to organize is the golf tournament at the Montecito Club. Chris is the host with the most around the barns, helping polo manager Melanja organize regular casual dinner events for members and players: “I’m Melanja’s BBQ boy!”

Fully embracing all aspects of what the club has to offer is what Mindy and Chris Denson do best. They truly appreciate being a part of the community that defines SBPRC, and they enjoy giving back to the club as much as they take away.

Images by Michelle Lauren Photography

Chris and Mindy Denson

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Images by Michelle Lauren Photography

POLO TRAINING CENTER GOLF TOURNAMENT

August 14

11:00 AM REGISTRATION

12:00 PM SHOTGUN START

$1800 FOURSOME (LIMITED TO 18) includes box lunch, cart, evening reception for 4

$150 EVENING RECEPTION ONLY (5-7PM)

LIVE MUSIC

PAST WINNERS

2018 Uretz Family

2019 F&M Bank

2021 F&M Bank

2022 Montecito Country Club

LONGEST DRIVE

2018 Patrick Uretz

2019 Geronimo Obregon

2021 Jeff Hall

2022 Santi Wulff

CLOSEST TO THE PIN

2018 Tony Uretz

2019 Chuck Lande

2021 Keko Magrini

2022 Will Busch

FEMALE MVP

2018 Magarita Lande

2019 Monica Williams

2021 Grace Hay

2022 Shannon Falcone

POLO TRAINING CENTER SANTA BARBARA

At Montecito Fitness, we believe the right environment is essential for achieving your fitness goals. Our private training facility offers a oneof-a-kind experience that is both luxurious and effective. Enjoy a serene and tranquil space where you can focus on your workout without any distractions. Say goodbye to the frustrations of waiting for weights, dealing with dirty and sweaty equipment, and navigating through a crowded gym. Instead, you will have access to pristine equipment that is always clean and ready for you to use. Work with a personal trainer who will contour your workout to your unique needs and abilities.

“Great space, nice amenities, and Ben is a phenomenal trainer for all ages and athletic abilities. He’s been training me (late 30’s female) and my teenage athletes for years and is a very well rounded trainer.”

- Tiffany K.

PROUD

SUPPORTERS of Polo in Southern California

Over 22 Years Serving the Hollywood Community

MEET STIFEL’S MONICA WILLIAMS

Q: HOW DID YOU BEGIN YOUR CAREER IN FINANCIAL SERVICES?

MW: My mother was one of the first women stockbrokers at Merrill Lynch in the 1970s. After spending many afternoons in her office as a child, I knew it was something I could also do to help others while enjoying a fulfilling career.

Q: AFTER 21 YEARS AT MORGAN STANLEY, YOU MADE A CHANGE TO STIFEL A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO. HOW HAS THE TRANSITION TO STIFEL BEEN?

MW: I remain incredibly happy about the move. At Stifel, I have the best of both worlds in my business – the sheer efficiency and boutique-style feel of a small firm, with all of the global financial services of one of the nation’s leading wealth management firms.

Photographer: Zach Mendez; Location: Opera Santa Barbara Gala Pictured left to right: Eric Small, Rodney Baker, Pati Clark, Monica Williams, Brooke Williams (Monica’s husband)

Q: THERE ARE SO MANY FINANCIAL PROFESSIONALS OUT THERE. WHAT MAKES YOU DIFFERENT?

MW: My mother always used to say, “Invest where money is going to be made, not where it has been made.” I take that to heart every day, continually thinking about how we may be able to preempt some of the future market moves rather than reacting to current ones. For example, I recommended reducing investment in bonds in 2021 –before the onset of one of the worst years for bonds on record.

Q: TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE YOUR LONGEVITY IN THE BUSINESS?

MW: I was fortunate to begin early, with an excellent mentor. I soon realized the importance of engaging closely with clients and growing along with them and their families. I love working with multiple generations – the added challenges of estate planning, insurance, and other factors beyond this year’s returns allow for long-term analyses, which I think has helped my successes extend over decades.

Q: OUTSIDE OF THE WORKING WORLD, WHAT IS THE ACHIEVEMENT IN THE LAST YEAR OF WHICH YOU ARE MOST PROUD?

MW: Last year, I joined the board of Opera Santa Barbara and was named Treasurer. I think the opera and polo communities have a wonderful synergy, and I look forward to nurturing that relationship. I’m also thrilled to be on the board of an equine rescue organization, Shooting Star Farms.

“Invest where money is going to be made, not where it has been made.”

Photographer: Michelle Lauren

Elle Linwood with her pony at Shooting Star Farms

Social Gallery

Top

R): Wendy Walker & guests; Chuck & Margarita Lande; Mike & Patrick Uretz; Mia Bray, Prince Harry & Judith Baker; Dana Hansen & Delores Johnson; Vivi Klentner & Atalia Finley

2nd row (L to R): Jessika Pappas; Sarah Feldhaus, Monica Finley, Maria Cabrera; Jake Klentner, NFL player Sean Culkin & Jesse Bray

3rd row (L to R): Lorainne Mullen-Kress, Kurt Kress & daughter; Ketel One brand ambassador; Dr. Richard & Annette Caleel; Sunday polo anthem by Tim Mullins; Carolyn Payne, Kiki & Anamarie Hiller; David Sigman & Jennifer Zacharias

Bottom row (L to R): Emily Laffite & Carter Thicke, David & Dawn Laffite, Gina Tolleson & guest; Cory Williams; Monica & Brooke Williams & guest; Pat & Ursula Nesbitt

row (L to

Top row (L to R): David Sigman, Ron Singer & John Muse; Keko Magrini, Grant Palmer, Will Busch, Juan Guerrero, Ryan Kerley & Santi Llavallol; Dan Walker, Chuck & Margarita Lande & friends; Brian Fagan & guests; Teddy Ru & Victoria Firestone

2nd row (L to R): Katie & Jef Graham & family; polo kids; Melanja Jones, Alex Torres, Kelly Smith-Remmling & Elizabeth Brand

3rd row (L to R): Alejandro Nordheimer & guests; Will Busch & Ryan Kerley; Soleimani family; Mike & Claudia Uretz; Justin & Jake Klentner; Masha Felderhof & Shane Lezcano

Bottom row (L to R): Brandon, Ocean & Andrea Phillips; Mariana Dehlin, Sarah Siegel Magness & guest; Paul & Gilbert Delagnes; Megan Judge & Ted Okie; Robyn Johnson, Megan Kozminski, Will Busch & guest; Gary Magness

Top row (L to R): Bauti Zimmerman & Santino Magrini; Allyson, Karl & Huxley Hasz; Jeff Hall & family; Jen Whyte, Vanessa Mannix & Lesley Tims

2nd row (L to R): Glen & Gloria Holden great grandchildren; Therese Pouliot, Nigel Gallimore & guest; Leigh Brecheen, Grant Palmer, Ryan Kerley & Joaquin Avendano

3rd row (L to R): Chuck Lande & Sy Zahedi; Michelle & Tanner Ebbin; Ben & Carmel Soleimani; Frank Smith & Marco Leone & guests; Bridgette & Roberto Lacerte & Patty Walters

Bottom row (L to R): Mary Stark; Grant Palmer; Dominique Mielle & Ron Carillo; Monica Finley, Eileen & Sy Zahedi; Juan & Paquito de Narvaez

Top row (L to R): Klentner Ranch team; Prince Harry, Pat Nesbitt & Nacho Figueras

2nd row (L to R): Robert Zedda & Steve Crowder

3rd row (L to R): Jenny Alter; Farmers & Merchants Bank team

4th row (L to R): Melanja Jones & David Sigman; Folded Hills/Zahedi Chogan team celebration

Good luck to all teams at

Photo Courtesy of Kerri Kerley Photography

From the Antelope Polo Team and the Palmer Family

YOGA FOR THE POLO COMMUNITY

MEGAN LLAMBIAS

P: 630.809.8580 yogaaprespolo.com

Top Honors

PONY AWARDS: 20 GOAL

Kilovatio

OWNED BY BEN SOLEIMANI AND PLAYED BY IÑAKI

LAPRIDA

BEST PLAYING PONY : Rosewood Miramar Beach Robert Skene Trophy , Farmers & Merchant’s Bank Silver Cup

Since 2019, Kilovatio has been a mainstay of the Santa Barbara Polo Club. A dark bay Ellerstina gelding by Open Picaro out of Open Karenza, Kilovatio was purchased by Ben Soleimani in the fall of 2017. Before arriving to California, he played high goal in both Argentina and England.

Kilovatio is known and loved for his power, natural talent, and consistency. Piloted by Ben Soleimani, Santi von Wernich, Remy Muller, and Iñaki Laprida, the 14-year-old gelding gives players great confidence: “Riding onto the field on Kilvatio... it feels like you can do anything. He is the perfect balance of power and handle,” suggests Remy Muller, manager of BenSoleimani.com polo.

Kilovatio’s name translates in English to kilowatt (one thousand watts of power). At 15.3 hands, Kilovatio’s athletic build and stature ring true to his name, however, his demeanour is very calm and quiet. Muller shares that Kilovatio has excellent ground manners and describes him as “a true gentleman.”

Watch for Kilovatio in this season’s 20-Goal series. He likes to peak later in the season and will be looking to reclaim his two Best Playing Pony titles in the Skene and Silver Cup tournaments.

PONY AWARDS: 20 GOAL

Easy Victory

OWNED AND PLAYED BY MATIAS

TORRES ZAVALETA

BEST PLAYING PONY: USPA America Cup

Ojos

OWNED AND PLAYED BY POROTO CAMBIASO

BEST PLAYING PONY: Netjets Pacific Coast Open

GT Polleruda

OWNED AND PLAYED BY PEKE GONZALEZ

BEST PLAYING PONY: Pacific Coast Open Argentine Bred

Dolfina Legendaria

OWNED AND PLAYED BY ROBERT ZEDDA

BEST PLAYING PONY: Folded Hills Pope Challenge

Pampa Norte Domino

OWNED AND PLAYED BY SANTI LLAVALOL

BEST PLAYING PONY: Folded Hills Vic Graber Cup

Machitos Crawford

OWNED BY MOKAROW FARMS AND PLAYED BY FACUNDO OBREGON

BEST PLAYING PONY: Lisle Nixon Memorial (Professional)

Casita Robada

OWNED BY NACHO FIGUERAS AND PLAYED BY PRINCE HARRY

BEST PLAYING PONY: Lisle Nixon Memorial (Amateur)

Coco

OWNED AND PLAYED BY JIMMY WRIGHT

BEST PLAYING PONY: Cheval Athletics USPA Intra-Circuit (Professional)

PONY AWARDS: 12 GOAL

Constanza

OWNED AND PLAYED BY HENRY WALKER

BEST PLAYING PONY: Cheval Athletics USPA Intra-Circuit (Amateur) Don Ercole Sol

OWNED AND PLAYED BY KEKO MAGRINI

BEST PLAYING PONY: Harry East Memorial Pavlova

OWNED BY MOKAROW FARMS AND PLAYED BY ROB STENZEL

BEST PLAYING PONY: Western Badge & Trophy

Sargento

OWNED AND PLAYED BY SANTIAGO VON WERNICH

BEST PLAYING PONY: Dean Mullins Classic Big

Star

OWNED AND PLAYED BY LUCAS CRIADO

BEST PLAYING PONY: Polo Training Center Santa Barbara Tournament

PONY AWARDS: RINCON LEAGUES

Germana Padre Coraje

OWNED AND PLAYED BY SANTI WULFF

BEST PLAYING PONY: James Colt Classic

OWNED AND PLAYED BY GUILLE AGUERO

BEST PLAYING PONY: Uihlein Memorial

Delmay Fortyluz Tangerine

OWNED AND PLAYED BY SEGUNDO SARAVI

BEST PLAYING PONY: USPA Summerland Officer’s Cup

OWNED BY RODRIGO SALINAS AND PLAYED BY NICO ESCOBAR

BEST PLAYING PONY: California Cup

Medalla Omega

OWNED BY GONZALO AVENDANO AND PLAYED BY WILL BUSCH

BEST PLAYING PONY: Malibu Cup

OWNED AND PLAYED BY JUAN CURBELO

BEST PLAYING PONY: Cut Throat Trophy

Dobel Paz

OWNED AND PLAYED BY ALE GONZALEZ

BEST PLAYING PONY: USPA General George Patton Carpinteria Cup

OWNED AND PLAYED BY SANTIAGO TROTZ

BEST PLAYING PONY: James Rice Memorial

PONY AWARDS: FALL TOURNAMENTS

Maria Luisa

BEST

Black Widow

BEST

Kahlua Blanca

OWNED AND PLAYED BY LEIGH BRECHEEN

BEST PLAYING PONY: Mixed Magic Invitational

OWNED AND PLAYED BY CORY WILLIAMS

BEST PLAYING PONY: Women’s 12 Goal Invitational

Malteada

OWNED AND PLAYED BY ALEJANDRO NORDHEIMER

BEST PLAYING PONY: Last Chance Tournament

USPA CLUB PONY OF THE YEAR

Open Provinciana

Open Provinciana received the Santa Barbara Polo Club's USPA Pony of the Year Award for 2022. Provinciana is a 13-year-old Argentine mare owned and played by the Wulff family.

Bred by Ellerstina, by Open Picaro out of Open Provenzal, Provinciana was imported from Argentina by Hana Grill in 2017. Two years later, Hana Grill and Julio Zavaleta gifted her to the youngest members of the Wulff Family: Iñaki (10 years old) and Emilia (12 years old). Santi explains, “I have to pay the bills on Provinciana, but she truly belongs to the kids, and they love her.”

A small mare with lots of speed and a good mouth, Open Provinciana can play up to any level, though is quiet enough for her young owners to enjoy. She makes them work on their riding each time they get on her: “If you’re ready to ride, she’s ready to play,” explains Santi. From junior and arena tournaments with Iñaki and Emilia to matches and tournaments up to the 8-goal level with Santi and Anita, Provinciana is one of those special ponies who does it all.

OWNED BY MARTIN TASSARA AND PLAYED BY FLORENCIA CURTI

PLAYING PONY: Sentinel Net Lease USPA President’s Cup

OWNED AND PLAYED BY TAVI USANDIZAGA

PLAYING PONY: Jackson Hole Horse Emporium Wickenden Cup

OWNED BY EMILIA & INAKI WULFF

Tournament Winners 2022

ROSEWOOD MIRAMAR BEACH ROBERT SKENE TROPHY

WINNERS: BENSOLEIMANI.COM

Ben Soleimani, Lucitas Criado, Iñaki Laprida, Jeff Hall

MVP: JEFF HALL

FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK

USPA SILVER CUP

WINNERS: BENSOLEIMANI.COM

Jeff Hall, Lucitas Criado, Iñaki Laprida, Ben Soleimani

MVP: JEFF HALL

20 Goal Series

USPA AMERICA CUP

WINNERS: KLENTNER RANCH

Santi Toccalino, Jesse Bray, Patrick Uretz, Justin Klentner

MVP: SANTI TOCCALINO

NETJETS PACIFIC COAST OPEN

WINNERS: L.I.N.Y

Keko Magrini, Santino Magrini, Paquito de Narvaez, Poroto Cambiaso

MVP: POROTO CAMBIASO

12 Goal Series

FOLDED HILLS VIC GRABER CUP

WINNERS: ANTELOPE

Grant Palmer, Santi Llavalol, Jimmy Wright, Santi Trotz

MVP: SANTI LLAVALOL

WINNERS: DUNDAS

Robert Zedda, Geronimo Obregon, Sarah Siegel Magness, Juan Cruz Marcos

MVP: GERONIMO OBREGON

LISLE NIXON MEMORIAL

WINNERS: LOS PADRES

Keko Magrini, Juan Guerrero, Nacho

Figueras, Prince Harry

MVP: NACHO FIGUERAS

CHEVAL ATHLETICS USPA INTRA-CIRCUIT

WINNERS: FMB TOO!/ FOLDED HILLS

Henry Walker, Santi Wulff, Juan Curbelo, Will Busch

MVP: JUAN CURBELO

12 Goal Series

HARRY EAST MEMORIAL

WINNERS: LOS PADRES

Keko Magrini, Juan Guerrero, Nacho Figueras, Prince Harry

MVP: KEKO MAGRINI

WINNERS: MOKAROW FARMS

Brendon Stenzel, Facundo Obregon, Kevin Mokarow, Rob Stenzel, Adam Ramson

MVP: FACUNDO OBREGON

12 Goal Series

DEAN MULLINS CLASSIC

WINNERS: DUNDAS II

Wesley Bryan, Santiago von Wernich, Mariano Fassetta, Cable Magness

MVP: WESLEY BRYAN

POLO TRAINING CENTER SANTA BARBARA TOURNAMENT

WINNERS: FMB

Ryan Kerley, Bayne Bossom, Lucas Criado, Matthew Walker

MVP: MATTHEW WALKER

SENTINEL NET LEASE USPA PRESIDENT’S CUP

WINNERS: ZAHEDI CHOGAN/FMB

Henry Walker (sub. Nico Peix), Santi Wulff, Bayne Bossom, Sy Zahedi

MVP: BAYNE BOSSOM

JACKSON HOLE HORSE EMPORIUM WICKENDEN CUP

WINNERS: WILD POLO/PAUHANA

Lesley Tims, Phoebe Champion, Tavi Usandizaga, Tomy Alberdi

MVP: TOMY ALBERDI

Rincon League

JAMES COLT CLASSIC

UIHLEIN MEMORIAL

WINNERS: LUCCHES E Agustin Molinas, Segundo Saravi, Bauti Alessandrini, John Muse

MVP: SEGUNDO SARAVI

USPA SUMMERLAND OFFICER’S CUP

WINNERS: PAUHANA / WHISKY POND

Guille Aguerro, Tavi Usandizaga, Brent Hamill, Phoebe Champion

MVP: TAVI USANDIZAGA

CALIFORNIA CUP

WINNERS: SOL DE AGOSTO

Paquito de Narvaez, Bauti Zimmerman, Benja Avendano, Juan de Narvaez

MVP: JUAN DE NARVAEZ

WINNERS: BUSH

LEAGUE/ FP POLO

Quinn Kyle, Ulysses Escapite, Brandon Plunkett, Nico Escobar

MVP: NICO ESCOBAR

Rincon League

MALIBU CUP

CUT THROAT TROPHY

WINNERS: FOLDED HILLS / ZAHEDI CHOGAN

Santi Wulff, Sy Zahedi, Bayne Bossom, Will Busch

MVP: SANTI WULFF

USPA GENERAL GEORGE PATTON CARPINTERIA CUP

WINNERS: WHISKEY POND/PAUHANA

Sophie Amundson, Brent Hamill, Tavi Usandizaga, Guille Aguero

MVP: TAVI USANDIZAGA

JAMES RICE MEMORIAL

WINNERS: FOLDED HILLS / ZAHEDI CHOGAN

Bayne Bossom, Will Busch, Santi Wulff, Sy Zahedi

MVP: WILL BUSCH

WINNERS: DEL PADRE/ NOVIS

Matt Yonally, Santi Trotz, Ivan Weiss, Nico Escobar

MVP: NICO ESCOBAR

Annual Awards

SPRING

WILL

O’HANLON

IÑAKI LAPRIDA JUAN GUERRERO KEKO MAGRINI

ROBERT SKENE MVP AWARD 12 GOAL MVP 12 GOAL BEST STRING RINCON MVP RINCON BEST STRING RINCON SPORTSMANSHIP

BUSCH ULYSSES ESCAPITE SANTI WULFF

BEST GROOM OF THE YEAR

PRO POOL HIGH POINT FALL PRO POOL HIGH POINT

DAN & ELENA DEMEYER LILY HAHN MANUEL DELORES GARCIA CLINT NANGLE EQUINE WELFARE AWARD BILLY LINFOOT MOST IMPROVED GROOMS RACE

LAURA CONNELLY JEFF & NAIMA SCHERAGA PAUHANA

Other Tournaments

MIXED MAGIC INVITATIONAL

WOMEN’S 12 GOAL INVITATIONAL

WINNERS: BFBST

Sierra Dunbar, Jen Alexy, Juan Curbelo, Leigh Brecheen

MVP: JEN ALEXY

WINNERS: SERENDIPITY

Melanja Jones, Dayelle Fargey, Tennyson Hamir, Taylor Olcott

MVP: TENNYSON HAMIR

LAST CHANCE TOURNAMENT

WINNERS: IGA/CLEARMIND

Alejandro Nordheimer, Piers

Bossom, Grace Wang, Maria Dahlmann

MVP: ALEJANDRO NORDHEIMER

2023 Tournament Schedule

12 Goal Series

Tournament games on Fridays and Sundays

Lucid Motors Pope Challenge

May 5–7

Jackson Hole Horse Emporium Vic Graber Cup

May 12–21

Whittier Trust Lisle Nixon Memorial

May 26–June 4

Folded Hills USPA Intra-Circuit

June 9–25

20 Goal Series

Tournament games on Fridays and Sundays

Lucchese Bootmaker Robert Skene Trophy

July 14–23

Farmers & Merchants Bank USPA Silver Cup

July 28–August 13

U.S. Polo Assn. America Cup

August 11–20

Netjets Pacific Coast Open

August 18–September 3

8 Goal Series

Tournament games on Saturdays and Sundays

USPA President’s Cup

September 16–24

USPA Wickenden Cup

September 30–October 8

Other Leagues

Early Bird Chukkers

April 22–30

Spring Pro Pool & 8-Goal ProAm League

May 4–June 25

Rincon League 6-8 Goal Pro-Am

July 13–September 2

Rincon League games are played on opposite days from the 20 Goal

Fall Pro Pool League

September 13–October 8

Special Tournaments

Care for Wild Mixed Magic Invitational

September 8–10

12 Goal Ladies Invitational

September 22–September 24

Last Chance Tournament

October 13–15

Arena Tournaments throughout 2023

FOR SCHEDULE UPDATES, VISIT SBPOLO.COM

The tournament schedule and field assignments, including off-site fields, are at discretion of management. Weather-related schedule changes are at the discretion of management and may result in playing on different days/fields other than specified above. No refunds due to weather, injury, natural disaster, or change of mind are provided. Schedule change request policy: ALL GAMES are scheduled on noted dates. After the tournament draw, if two teams agree to change the game and field,and staffing allows, then the request may be considered.

MELANJA JONES, POLO MANAGER MELANJAJ@SBPOLO.COM

Visitor Info

Grandstand Seating Map

The club offers Grandstand seating for spectators in the polo Clubhouse. The south side of the Clubhouse is for guests and the north side is for members only. For information on tickets for Sunday polo, visit sbpolo.com.

The Game

The object of the game is to move the ball through the goal posts to score. Polo teams change direction after each goal is scored in order to equalize field and weather conditions. If you see a flag raised at the end of the field – a goal was scored!

The rules of polo are intended to ensure the safety of ponies and players. The essential concept is the “line of the ball,” a right-of-way established by the path of the traveling ball.

Any infraction of the game rules is a foul and most often results in the umpires awarding a penalty shot. Penalty shots range in distance from the goal end, depending on the severity of the foul.

Defense

Hook: Using one’s mallet to block or interfere with an opponent's swing.

Ride-off (or Bump): Like a shoulder check in hockey, a ride-off allows players to use their ponies to push an opposing player and pony off of the line of the ball.

GAME DAY GUIDE

By The Numbers

3-3 ½ INCHES : Polo balls measure 3-3 ½ inches in diameter and are made of hard plastic.

1, 2, 3, 4 : The numbers on players jerseys indicating the position they play.

300 x 160 YARDS : The size of the polo field, equivalent to nine football fields!

7½ MINUTES : The length of a period of play, referred to as a chukker. Games consist of 4 to 6 chukkers.

1-10 : Each player earns a handicap ranging from -1 Goals to 10 Goals. The higher the handicap, the better the player.

49-54 INCHES : The length of player’s mallets. Players use the wide face of the 9-inch wooden head to hit the ball.

35MPH : Top speed that polo ponies can travel.

Glossary

Near-side: The left side of the horse. The right-hand side of the horse is referred to as the off-side.

Umpires: Two mounted officials on the field who are responsible for enforcing the rules of play.

Ponies: Most polo ponies are thoroughbred or part thoroughbreds, selected for their agility, speed, and intelligence. Players use at least one pony per chukker and often bring a few “spare” ponies in case one of their mounts gets fatigued. Ponies’ manes are shaved and their tails are braided to prevent becoming entangled with players’ reins or mallets during the game.

Throw in: To start or resume play, an umpire rolls the ball down the center of a line up of players and ponies.

SANTA BARBARA

MUSEUM OF ART 1130 State Street

Santa Barbara, CA 93101

MUSEUM HOURS

Tuesday – Sunday 11AM – 5PM

Thursday Free Entry 5PM – 8PM Closed Mondays and holidays sbma.net/exhibitions

Whitney Bedford, Veduta (Lacombe Red Pines) , 2022. Ink and oil on linen on hybrid panel.

SBMA, Museum purchase with funds provided by the Luria/Budgor Family Foundation. © Whitney Bedford.