2020 Santa Barbara Polo Magazine

Page 1



800 ALVARADO PLACE SANTA BARBARA, CA 93103 805 845 5800 • reservations.ele@belmond.com


Trim Area Safety Area

Full Size: 18.25”x11.125” Trim Size: 18”x10.875” Safe Zone: 8”x10.125 (per page)

DOUBLE

USA, Europe, Israel, Turkey, Italy, Middle East, Japan, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan www.sbpolo.com


PAGE A D


CONTENTS 14 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE 16 SEASON SPONSORS 20 INSIDE THE LINES 26 HIGH GOALS ENCHANTED HISTORY: 30 EL ENCANTO & POLO CONTINUED EXCELLENCE: 37 SANTA BARBARA MUSEUM OF ART BARBARA’S 42 SANTA WOMEN OF POLO

47 POLOGRAPHICS 51 FROM THE COURTS 52 SOCIAL GALLERY 60 TOURNAMENT WINNERS 2019 69 2020 TOURNAMENTS 70 EXCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITIES 72 VISITORS MAP 74 THE RULES OF POLO



BE WILDLY SPOILED IN THE UNSPOILED GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Experience Celebrity FloraSM®, the first all-suites luxury mega yacht designed for this one-of-kind destination. Unwind in the most stunning suites in the islands, complete with Personal Suite Attendants so you never have to lift a finger. Savor locally sourced cuisine from menus crafted by our Michelin-starred chef. Embark on daily in-depth excursions guided by certified naturalists. With everything you need included—right down to your snorkeling gear—you don’t have to think about anything except enjoying one of the world’s most awe-inspiring places.

CALL US AT 1-888-283-6879 CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR VISIT CELEBRITY.COM ©2020 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.


100 YEARS OF TRUST

We understand people don’t do what they do simply for money; they do it for what that money buys them. Peace of mind. Securing the futures of their children, as well as their children’s children. We have a unique understanding of the importance of legacy. Because Farmers and Merchants Trust Company itself has been family-managed for 100 years. So if you’ve got a question, we’ve got sound advice, now right here in Santa Barbara.

Visit us at 1034 Santa Barbara Street at the corner of East Figueroa Street in the historic Folk Mote Music Building or call us at 805-776-3682. ©2020 Farmers and Merchants Trust Company • FMTrust.com


S A N TA B A R B A R A P O LO M AG A Z I N E PRODUCTION

TRUSTEES Tom Barrack, Glen Holden Jr., Chuck Lande, Pat Nesbitt, Geoff Palmer, Pat Ringer, Wesley Ru, Michael Sheller, Daniel Walker, Henry Walker

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Megan Kozminski ART DIRECTOR Travis Sarvas www.sarvasdesigncompany.com

TRUSTEES OF DISTINCTION Ambassador Glen Holden, Dr. Norman Ringer, Kenneth Walker BOARD OF DIRECTORS President John Muse Vice President Rhys Williams

PHOTOGRAPHY

Treasurer Michele Saltoun

David Lominska

Secretary David Sigman

www.polographics.com

Daniel Walker, Leigh Brecheen, Kevin Nimmons, Justin Klentner

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Sofia Abbiati CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHY Kerri Kerley, Shannon Jayne Miller, Cormac O’Brien

STAFF General Manager David Sigman Controller Susana Banda-Avila Director of Operations Kerri Ramgren Polo Manager Melanja Jones Field and Facility Manager Sergio Jaramillo

CONTRIBUTORS Sofia Abbiati, Paige Beard, Mia Bray, Sarah Eakin, Ryan Germain, Neal Graffy, Hayley Heatley, Melanja Jones, Lisa Muirhead/Poise Publications, Kerri Ramgren, David Sigman, Charles Ward

Barn Manager and Field Director Judith Baker Assistant Polo Manager Mia Bray Polo Academy Director Jeff Scheraga Polo Clubhouse Manager Molly Quigley Floor Manager Miz Aguirre

Santa Barbara Polo Magazine is the annual publication of

Bar Manager Nicole Unruh-Enos

Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. For advertising enquiries,

Tennis Director Stephanie Stone

email megan@mediaspur.com.

Tennis Ambassador Bart Hillock Tennis Clubhouse Manager Joanie Bear-Otero

Reproduction in whole or part without written permission

Head Tennis Pro Lance Kronberg

of the Publisher is strictly prohibited.

Tennis Pro Sara Scott Assistant Tennis Pro Ishanka Mohottige

© 2020 Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club 3300 Via Real, Carpinteria, CA 93013

AFFILIATES Charles Ward, Idea Works Inc.

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

Media Spur Inc.



Peter Cohen Spring Summer 2020 collection

CAPTIVATING MODERN LUXURY allorabylaura.com

|

1269 Coast Village Road Montecito CA 93108

|

805.563.2425



PRE SIDE N T ’S ME S SAGE W E L C O M E to all members, sponsors, players and guests. We look forward to a very exciting 2020 season. We had record spectator attendance in 2019, as well as the highest number of teams at all levels in many years. We expect even more teams in our highly competitive series this season, starting with 12 Goal in early summer and continuing with our 16 Goal in July and August. The fall season already shows great promise, with strong interest lining up for the 8 Goal league in September and early October. We were awarded the Silver Cup by the United States Polo Association, which will replace the Americas Cup as the second tournament in our highgoal series. It is a legendary cup and we are thrilled to have it return to our venue, where it was played for many years. Over Labor Day weekend, we look forward to the USPA Camacho Cup with Team USA facing off against Team Mexico, as well as the Women’s Pacific Coast Open showcasing the most talented women in polo. The Women’s PCO follows up the prestigious three-week USPA Pacific Coast Open – which is the pinnacle high goal polo tournament in the Western U.S. Santa Barbara Polo Club is renowned for its high level of play, unbeatable facilities and fast, open polo. Last season there was a different champion in each major tournament, a testament to the highly competitive nature of our matches. Our polo academy is also thriving, and we encourage all members and guests to learn the game in any of the entry-level programs in the arena or in coaching league. Make your plans to join us this season. We have a splendid team that continues to improve the polo experience for members and guests each year and we look forward to continuing to meet your expectations of great service in 2020.

Sincerely,

JOHN MUSE | President, Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club

2020 BOARD OF DIREC TOR S

RHYS WILLIAMS Vice President

MICHELE SALTOUN Treasurer

DANIEL WALKER Board Member

LEIGH BRECHEEN Board Member

14

KEVIN NIMMONS Board Member

JUSTIN KLENTNER Board Member

DAVID SIGMAN Secretary


INTRODUCING

LUCCHESE.COM


2020 SPONSOR PA R T NE RS

16


N

P A R T

K

N

I

P

R S

R I S

E

S

A

U

E T

T E

G R

O

2 7 0 9 VI STA O CE ANO L A N E , S UMME R L A N D | $19, 800, 0 00 Tu s c a n y O a k s F a r m E s t a t e . c o m

RISKIN PARTNERS ESTATE GROUP DRE 01954177 / ERIC HASKELL DRE 01866805 / MAURICIO UMANSKY DRE 01222825


DaviD GoDfrey+Company

MESSAGE FROM THE P OLO M ANAGER

CertifieD publiC aCCountant

ACCOUNTANTS AND ADVISORS

DAVID GODFREY

Tax Planning & Preparation Financial Planning

Individuals - Small Business - Trusts

Hearty congratulations to the polo teams and Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club for the Roaring Twenties 2020 season!

The return of the USPA Farmers & Merchants Bank Silver Cup to the 2020 season at SBPRC adds luster to an already spectacular roster of tournaments. The Silver Cup is the most historic cup in the USPA’s list of tournaments and has been contested all over the country since 1900, from Florida to New York to Texas.

Serving the California Central Coast since 1980 1056 Eugenia Place Carpinteria, CA 93013 | 805.566.3340

Our high-goal season is always incredibly competitive, and the addition of the Silver Cup to the season schedule alongside the Belmond El Encanto Robert Skene Trophy and the Pacific Coast Open really connects the history of our club to the history of the sport on a national level. The Silver Cup trophy plate reads like a who’s who of polo. Robert Skene, Carlos Gracida, Tommy Wayman, Joe Barry, Cecil Smith, William Ylvisaker, Adam Snow, Mike Azzaro, Andy Busch, and Adolfo Cambiaso all have their names etched as champions. It is a beautiful trophy that literally shines on the trophy stand. Yet beyond the glitter of Sunday polo and trophy presentations, this Cup also represents the history of all the players who have chased the dream and followed the sun in pursuit of polo perfection. They expended blood, sweat and tears in pursuit of those dreams, and for each of their amazing wins, there were likely four or five losses. But the important thing was that they were part of it all, and that is what makes polo so special. There is only ever one tournament winner, but everyone who spends the season at SBPRC is part of a bigger dream of the perfect season, the pursuit of the perfect polo pony, and the community that creates our polo paradise by the sea. We invite you to create your own polo history at SBPRC this summer.

MELANJA JONES Polo Manager

18


A GLOBAL WINGSPAN

Jetcraft is the leader in international aircraft sales, marketing and ownership strategies, managing and maintaining over 20 regional offices globally. The company ’s unparalleled success over more than 55 years in business aviation has earned it a world-class reputation, along with an exceptional customer base, a wide network of connections and one of the largest inventories within the industry. More on our company, our global team, and a full line up of our current inventory may be viewed online at Jetcraft.com AIRCRAFT SALES

MARKETING

OWNERSHIP STRATEGIES

Please contact me to learn how I can simplify your aircraft acquisitions or maximize your selling opportunities for your existing aircraft.

Marius Breitenbach Sales Director +1 214 763 3771 marius.breitenbach@jetcraft.com


INSIDE THE LINES

THE ICONIC MS. BAKER

There are very few things Judith Baker has not accomplished in the

that she could train a horse as well if not better than most men in the

sport of polo and equestrian industry. Now in her 70s, Judith continues

industry, Judith purchased an off-the-track grey thoroughbred mare

to push the envelope. Recently, she captained the champion Santa

that went on to earn numerous top pony honors in both the United

Barbara team in the Eldorado Polo Women’s Tournament. And that

States and Argentina. That little grey pony named Silverada became

daredevil who paraglided onto Field 1 for Sunday Polo? Judith!

the second North American horse to ever win Best Playing Pony in

Judith’s lifelong passion for horses is her raison d’être. She became

the Argentine Open, and the accomplishment catapulted Judith’s

an international showjumping superstar in the ‘70s on the backs of

reputation as a horsewoman of great instinct and ability.

horses she purchased in Tijuana and trained herself. Her jumping

The talented Ms. Baker then transitioned from horse training to team

career culminated with the Women’s Championship title in Holland

management, working with Lyndon Lea’s Zacara polo organization

where she jumped a 6’9” puissance wall with her top horse Nobeark.

in both California and Florida. She was team manager when Zacara

Judith started polo lessons at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center in the

won the prestigious U.S. Open Polo Championship in 2012.

‘80s. After only a few months in the sport, she started the Winston

Today you can find Judith running polo games and directing fields

Polo Club in nearby Anaheim, where she helped to introduce polo

here in Santa Barbara. Ask her about her accomplishments as a horse

to dozens of new players, including USPA Governor-at-Large Denny

trainer, polo player, club owner, or team manager and the response

Geiler and actor Sylvester Stallone.

from this modest Englishwoman is: “I’ve done quite a lot in polo.”

As her involvement in the sport flourished, Judith became serious about

Ask anyone else in the polo community who has been influenced and inspired by Judith’s talented career and the answer is: “Judith is

quality polo ponies. She made countless trips to Florida, purchasing

an icon.”

made ponies and selling them to players back in California. Realizing

20


TOP HONOURS MINIMA Minima is a 12-year-old chestnut mare owned and played by Juan Monteverde. Minima comes from Milo Fernandez Araujo’s breeding operation and was born to play polo. She won Best Pony honors in the Rincon League and in the America Cup semifinal in Santa Barbara. She also won the Best Playing Pony award in the Kentucky Classic final in 2017. Her dam, Paz, was a legendary mare who received numerous Best Playing Pony honors in the Argentine Open. Her sire Barullo (from Lucas Criado’s breeding operation) is out of Chusma by Rainbow Corner. What makes Minima such a great pony? “She is explosive on the field. She gallops so comfortably and can turn both ways very quickly. She has a great mouth and a big heart,” says Monteverde. Some underestimate this mare because of her small stature and calm disposition. But Juan warns, “Once they throw the ball in to start the game, watch out because Minima is very serious and you must stay out of her way!”

P E N U LT I M O Meet Penultimo, an 8-year-old bay Argentine gelding owned and played by Jeff Hall. Penultimo (Penuria x Sobre Todo) comes from the Ellerstina breeding operation and was trained by Andres (Ruso) Sorzana. Hall bought Penultimo from Ruso and John Muse two years ago as a 6-year-old. Winning the Best Playing Pony prize in the 2019 Pacific Coast Open was the first major career award for Penultimo, and likely not his last: “He has a great combination of all the skills that make a winning pony. He has explosive power, he’s handy and quick, he has a good mouth and great lateral movements,” explains Hall. Away from the field, Penultimo is also known for his youthful spirit. Hall explains that come the gelding’s daily feeding time, he lets out a series of distinctly loud and high-pitched whinnies: “It’s like having a young colt in the barn!”

21


POLO ACADEMY In the Santa Barbara Polo Academy, USPA certified polo instructor Jeff Scheraga has created a learning environment that is safe, supportive and, most of all, fun! Often students who take up polo have no riding experience. Thanks to the steady and reliable string of school horses under Jeff and his wife Naima’s care, students can learn horsemanship and polo all at once. The Polo Academy excels at matching ponies with riders and students with other like-minded students. One of Jeff’s goals for growth is to encourage positive and memorable polo experiences that students tell their friends about. As a result, the academy has cultivated a community of its own, made up of students and friends discovering the joys and challenges of the sport together. Jeff suggests that “lessons are far less intimidating than people imagine, and many are surprised by how much fun it is to learn to ride, hit the ball and play on a team.” Some of the most dedicated students in the Polo Academy are the Westmount and UCSB collegiate women’s teams. Over the course of the winter, these new players practice up to three times per week, assist with horse care and barn duties, and travel to compete in polo tournaments—all while completing their full-time studies. Collegiate students are gaining new access to polo and achieving new goals through scholarships funded by the Polo Training Center Santa Barbara (PTCSB), a charitable organization that encourages the growth of polo by operating and supporting programs for players at all levels. PTCSB scholarships recognize leadership, dedication and commitment in aspiring players, and once in training, Coach Scheraga works to develop students into wellrounded riders and players who understand all the intricacies of the sport. The culture of encouragement that thrives in the Polo Academy welcomes men and women of all ages (minimum 6 years old) and levels of experience. Many first-time students become regulars in the program: “Once we establish a connection between a new student and a special pony, and we determine a training program that suits their interest and comfort level, their polo habit is born.” Up and coming player David Malenoir-Evans first caught the polo bug during his military service over a decade ago. Having moved from England to New York and recently to Santa Barbara, David has immersed himself in polo and horsemanship lessons with Coach Scheraga: “I have come to understand that being a good polo player begins with being a good horseman. There are so many factors at work between the physical mechanics of the horse and rider. Jeff provides very insightful and intricate instruction and as a result I am becoming more fluid in the saddle and have learned to read the horse.” Having invested in his first polo pony Cuervo (who happens to be named after his favorite libation), David plans to put his new skills into play in the Pro Pool league in 2020.

22


MONTECITO HOPE RANCH SANTA BARBARA

OceanBluffParadise.com

UltimateRetreatSB.com

M RYKE

B

AR

ECITO .

NT

TR

N

A N TA

REAL ESTATE AGENT | DRE 01301281

EA

.S

Judit Schweller Team Ryken

T

Let us help you find your piece of paradise.

B A R A. M O

Terry Ryken 805.896.6977 BROKER ASSOCIATE | DRE 01107300

TerryJRyken@gmail.com TerryRyken.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.


CHAMPION OF DESIGN For the third consecutive season, Tara Gray Jewelry has partnered

things I have ever done. I have always been an athlete and polo

with the Santa Barbara Polo Club to present the Pacific Coast Open

has presented me a great new challenge. Learning to play gives me

(PCO) championship ring—the only ring of its kind in the history

new respect for the level of talent and horsemanship that we are

of polo. The design of the ring takes inspiration from the legendary

lucky to experience each polo season.”

PCO trophy, which was commissioned in 1908 and features glittering polo scenes, ornate leaf work and an eagle supporting a globe. Tara’s design of the ring is an homage to the trophy and is elevated by the addition of 14 carat gold and a plethora of diamonds. In 2018, she added 108 black and white diamonds to signify the 108th anniversary of the polo club and she continues to add commemorative gemstones each year. A leader in her field, Tara showcases her designs on TVON (a boutique television network for jewelry) and creates custom pieces for an exclusive list of clientele. Recently, she designed the Branches of Peace Legacy Necklace in tribute to the Turner Foundation’s 60th Anniversary distinguished guest of honor, President George W. Bush. Tara is not only the exclusive jeweler of the Santa Barbara Polo Club, she is a passionate member of the polo community. She dedicates her free time to lessons at the Polo Academy and plans to invest in her

Lucas Escobar, Juan Monteverde, Dan Walker, Santiago Toccalino

first polo pony this season: “Taking up the sport is one of the best

STEEPED IN TRADITION Long-standing traditions associated with polo include divot-stomps, trophy presentations, champagne pours, and white pants, to name just a few. Occasionally a more communityminded tradition passes the test of time, and within the Santa Barbara polo community, that respected social tradition is the Ladies Tea. The Ladies Tea was established in the late ‘90s to bring the women of polo together. At the time, many wives of players were field-side friends within the circle of their husband’s or family’s polo team, but they lacked a real connection to the sport and to one another. More than an opportunity for gathering and lunch, the Ladies Tea became a support network for women in the community Guests at the 2019 Ladies Tea

who committed endless energy to the polo club—from horses, husbands and children, to seasonlong tournaments and events. Long-time club member and supporter Margarita Lande credits Gloria Holden’s vision and execution: “The Ladies Tea was just one of Gloria’s many gifts to polo. She did so much for the club all the time—she was always quietly organizing events for the benefit of others. Gloria built the foundation for women at this polo club.” After several years’ break in custom, Margarita enthusiastically led the charge to resurrect the Ladies Tea and it has once again become the pinnacle women’s event of the polo season. While club membership and women’s roles have evolved, the intention of the event remains the same: to gather and celebrate women and friendship. “In recent years, the Ladies Tea has brought together wives, mothers and daughters, as well as women who are playing members. We will honor this tradition for generations forward.”

24



HIGH GOALS Grant Palmer is stepping up to play high-goal polo this season alongside his longtime mentor Santi Trotz. Grant is one of the youngest players to compete at the highest level of the sport in the western U.S., and his road to the 16-Goal league reveals the dedication and hard work involved in realizing his polo goals. When did you take up the sport of polo? I started polo when I was three years old at the Eldorado Polo Club in La Quinta, California. I played junior polo for many years and then moved up into the 8-Goal league when I was 14. Who has had the most influence on you as a player?

Geoff & Grant Palmer

“Grant has greatly improved as a player, especially in the last two years. His riding abilities are very strong, and he always works hard to improve as a player.” – Santi Trotz

Number one is my dad Geoff. He has always supported and encouraged me. He comes to almost all my games and has helped me build a great string of ponies. Santi Trotz has coached me since I was young, and he is a great friend and mentor. This summer I will play high goal in Santa Barbara with Santi. Caroline Anier has also been an important mentor to me for a long time and I have enjoyed playing with her at the St. Tropez Polo Club in France. What do you find challenging about the sport? It takes a lot of grit to compete against professional players. I have become stronger in the last year or two and this has helped me keep up with some of the better players. Another challenge is reading the play. This is very important at the high-goal level, as the game changes very quickly. With Santi’s help, I am working on anticipating plays so that I can make good decisions and be a greater asset to my team. What do you find most rewarding about polo? I enjoy the partnership I have with the ponies. When one of my horses has a very good game and I feel like we work well together, that is very rewarding for me. I always want to play my best and get the most out of my horses. My favorite games are those that are fast and open with as few fouls as possible. Those are the games I remember and enjoy the most. What are your polo goals for the future? I want to continue to improve my string. I am becoming more involved in horse selection and have traveled to Argentina with Santi to find horses that suit me now that I am stronger and competing at a higher level. I will focus on playing polo in Southern California for the next few years while I attend university. I want to keep improving my game as much as possible.

Grant Palmer & Santi Trotz

26


PROU D TO CE LE B R ATE A DECADE OF SE RVICE TO TH E SANTA BARBAR A COM M U NIT Y AN D TH E SANTA BARBAR A POLO & R ACQU ET CLU B

S A N TA B A R B A R A’ S P R E M I E R VA L E T PA R K I N G S E R V I C E

805.819.0527

|

B L U E S TA R PA R K I N G . C O M

VALET PARKING | PRIVATE DRIVING | EVENT ATTENDANT SERVICE | GUEST SHUTTLE SERVICE


805.339.9665 | seasonscateringca.com



By Sarah Eakin

Image courtesy of Belmond El Encanto

As the Santa Barbara region rose to Riviera fame, both the prolific El Encanto hotel and the sport of polo gained eminent footing in southern California. Construction of the first bungalow cottage, a private residence later to be part of the hotel, was underway soon after the Santa Barbara Polo Club was established in 1911, and as the century unfolded, so did lasting intersections between the two destinations. Located on a site that started out with the inauspicious sobriquet of “Storke’s Folly”, the legendary hotel underwent a multi-million-dollar refurbishment in recent years under the ownership of Belmond Hotels. The objective: to bring it back to resemble its former glory days when it hosted Hollywood greats such as Clarke Gable, Carole Lombard and Heddy Lemarr, auspicious visitors from the hotel’s Golden Age.

30


The land was first purchased by C.A. Storke in 1877

1993 by the famed lily pond. And finally, it was there his

for the lowly sum of $153.75, a paltry fee that was

legacy was laid to rest in a memorial service.

considered an ill-conceived investment given the lack of water and limited access to the area. Fortunes changed with the arrival of the railway in 1887, allowing Storke to reap dividends on his capital, selling to San Francisco capitalist Walter Hawley for the princely price of twentyfive thousand dollars.

While the hotel became Friden’s professional passion, polo was his leisure passion. El Encanto Polo Team trophies were proudly displayed in the fireside room off the hotel’s lobby. When the Federation of International Polo World Cup came to Santa Barbara in 1998, the couple hosted a prestigious opening party at El Encanto.

The original El Encanto hotel opened in 1918, with eleven bungalow cottages scattered amongst eucalyptus trees that had been planted in the 1870s. Over the course of the 20th century, the hotel changed hands many times until it fell into the arms of Eric Friden, an admirer of the mystique of the property and a man filled with visions of restoring El Encanto to the majesty of its

El Encanto meaning: The Enchanted

heyday. “Historic preservation is our goal,” Friden, the co-founder of FHC Hotel Management, declared to the Santa Barbara News-Press. “We want people to have the experience of stepping back in time to the ‘20s and ‘30s. The property needs to be restored. I see El Encanto

Kerin still occasionally visits the hotel where she is

becoming a five-star hotel.” Sadly Friden’s plans never

pleased to see that the dreams she and Eric shared for

came to fruition in his lifetime: he passed away in 2003

the setting have come to life. Belmond purchased the

at the age of 61.

hotel in 2004 and closed the doors in 2006, opening

Polo was a staple of Friden’s activities after he moved to the Santa Barbara area in the ‘70s and discovered the ‘sport of kings’ in the ‘80s, but it was his beloved hotel that provided a backdrop to the milestones in his personal life. It was at El Encanto that he met his wife, Kerin, who

them seven years later to reveal the results of the hotel’s revival: 70 rooms and 22 suites in the hotel’s signature bungalows with panoramic views of the ocean and the city, and refurbished features such as the lily pond and pool area.

had started working there in 1982. And it was there that

This revival realized many of the plans that Eric and Kerin

he proposed to her, and there that they were married in

had put in place for the property prior to Eric’s untimely

Image courtesy of Neal Graffy Collection

Images courtesy of Kerin Friden

31


death. “Before my husband died, we’d been in the process of getting the permit to do a massive renovation,” said Kerin. “After he died, I wanted to continue that and bring the dream to fruition, but it just wasn’t the same without him; I didn’t have the heart to follow through. I was familiar with Belmond, had traveled and visited their properties around the world, and knew that they always honor the history of the property,” she told the Santa Barbara Independent in 2013. Kerin harbors many happy memories of the El Encanto. When she worked in PR at the hotel, Robert Wagner who at the time was dating Jill St. John, stayed in one of the units and wrote on the guest comment card, “fabulous time, loved it, only thing wrong is the pen” as the pen he was writing with dried up in the process. The next time he stayed at the hotel, Kerin got him a fancy engraved pen and wrote a note saying “hopefully this will perfect your stay.” The hotel’s storied past is not lost on those who visit today’s Belmond El Encanto. “A sense of history clings to the Santa Barbara icon with its winding pathways and romantic bungalows,” reviewed London’s Daily Telegraph. “Hollywood’s A-list still like to escape to this hilltop eyrie, with the chic seaside town spread out like a movie set beneath.” Examples of such modern-day stars include Gwen Stefani, Wolfgang Puck and Leonardo DiCaprio, to name a few. Image courtesy of Belmond El Encanto

Ties between the resort and Friden’s second home, the prestigious Santa Barbara Polo Club, also endure. For many years after the purchase of the hotel, Belmond sponsored the first high-goal polo tournament of the season. In 2013, Belmond honored Eric at the final match of the tournament, which was a tribute valued highly by his widow. To mark the occasion, Ambassador Glen Holden spoke about Eric and his legacy, and Kerin threw the ball in to start the game. Moving forward with tradition in 2020, the Santa Barbara Polo Club will host the Belmond El Encanto Robert Skene Trophy this summer. Polo Club General Manager David Sigman reflects on the ongoing ties between the resort and the sport: “Many polo patrons want to experience the best that Santa Barbara has to offer and that includes an exciting high-goal polo game, followed by a sunset dinner on the deck and a stay at the magical Belmond El Encanto.”

Sarah Eakin, born in England, is a journalist who has covered the sport of polo worldwide since the ‘90s. She lived in the United States for 20 years before moving back to the U.K. and currently lives in Edinburgh. She recently published her first novel Wed, White and Blue on Amazon. Research contributions made by Sofia Abbiati, Kerin Friden and Neal Graffy.


WESTERN BUILT CONSTRUCTION

WESTERN BUILT CONSTRUCTION THE PROUD SPONSOR OF THE KLENTNER RANCH POLO TEAM, WINNER OF THE PACIFIC COAST OPEN, WHERE GREAT TEAM WORK ACHIEVES GREAT RESULTS

www.westernbuiltconstruction.com | 310.360.0090


The Fin e st M o n t e c it o & S a n t a B a r b a r a H o m e s Presented by

805.886.9378 Crist a l@ Mont ec it o- Est a t e.c om www.Mont ec it o- Est a t e.c om D RE # 0 0 96 8247

1 1. SAND POINT ROAD A PREMIER OCEANFRONT ESTATE $26,500,000 • REPRESENTED SELLER

2

2. LILAC DRIVE EUROPEAN-INSPIRED CONTEMPORARY ESTATE OFFERED AT $16,995,000

3

3. TORO CANYON PARK ROAD WORLD CLASS TORO CANYON ESTATE $14,900,000 • REPRESENTED BUYER & SELLER

©2020 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements,


1

#

Agent

in Santa Barbara MLS*

I N 2019. . . •

Cristal ranked the

#1 Individual Agent in the entire Santa Barbara MLS

• • •

Sales in excess of $155,000,000

Cristal ranked #1 Agent in California for sales volume **

Cristal ranked #2 Agent in the Nation for sales volume out of over 60,000 agents worldwide ** •

31 Closed Transactions, representing 19 sellers and 12 buyers •

Exceptional representation across a broad spectrum:

Highest Sale —$24,250,000 | Lowest Sale —$717,000 •

Cristal holds the record for highest listed residential beach sales in 2017 & 2019

6 4

5

7

8

4. LADERA LANE

5. BOUNDARY DRIVE

ICONIC MODERNISM BY BARTON MYERS OFFERED AT $7,500,000

FRENCH COUNTRY SHOWCASE IN BIRNAM OFFERED AT $5,950,000

6. HIDDEN VALLEY LANE

7. EAST LAS TUNAS

OCEAN VIEW MEDITERRANEAN ESTATE OFFERED AT $4,750,000

STRIKING RIVIERA MID CENTURY MODERN OFFERED AT $3,850,000

8. OLIVE STREET

MORE LUXURY REAL ESTATE, VISIT:

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY IN SUMMERLAND OFFERED AT $1,195,000

MONTECITO-ESTATE.COM

conditions, and features of property. Information is obtained from various sources and will not be verified by broker or MLS. CalDRE 00968247 *Individual Agent in Santa Barbara MLS for 2019. **For Berkshire Hathway Home Services Agents


Good luck to all teams at SANTA BARBARA POLO CLUB

in 2020

From the Antelope Polo Team and the Palmer Family Image courtesy of Kerri Kerley


Continued Excellence Lansdowne Hermes (Roman) First half of 2nd century CE, Marble • Santa Barbara Museum of Art Gift of Wright S. Ludington, 1984.34.1

S A N TA B A R B A R A M U S E U M O F A R T

In the fall of 2020, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art will celebrate the completion of a five-year, $50 million renovation. The project addressed critical needs of the museum building: seismic retrofitting, structural work, and significant improvements to art movement and storage areas. The museum has remained open during the renovation, featuring a rotation of the permanent collection and an exciting exhibition schedule. Two new galleries were created, one dedicated to the display of Photography and New Media, and one for Contemporary Art. The new facilities ensure that future generations will continue to be inspired by the extraordinary art and arts programming that has been offered throughout the Museum’s history. The Santa Barbara Museum of Art originally opened on June 5, 1941. A former post office, it was transformed into a museum by a group of local artists and philanthropists. The Santa Barbara News-Press declared that those responsible for the planning and realization of the museum hoped that it "will never be finished, but a living thing—always growing, always changing, but always the same in heart and purpose."

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

There were 50,000 visitors in the first six months, an impressive number for a city with a population of only 35,000. The first full year of operation, the museum presented three major shows, including one featuring 17 works by Vincent Van Gogh, many smaller exhibitions, a weekly radio broadcast, public lectures, art-making classes for children, and concerts. A schedule much like it offers today. The first scheduled exhibition in the renovated museum galleries features Van Gogh, an appropriate and meaningful choice to celebrate the continuum of outstanding arts programming and education for which the Santa Barbara Museum of Art is known. Museum visitors also enjoy special exhibitions of international importance, the interactive Family Resource Center, and Museum Store.

37


Exhibitions 2020 HIGHLIGHTS OF THE PERMANENT COLLECTION This installation includes some of the most celebrated works of art from Santa Barbara Museum of Art’s permanent collection, as well as several of the most exciting gifts and acquisitions in the areas of modern and contemporary art, photography, and the arts of Asia.

S M A L L- F O R M AT A M E R I C A N PA I N T I N G S FROM THE PERMANENT COLLECTION The Preston Morton Collection, which forms the core of American art at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, was gifted in 1961 upon the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the museum’s founding. Donor Preston Morton ensured that the museum held one of the most comprehensive overviews of American art from the 18th to the mid-20th century among mid-sized institutions. The timing of the gift was significant, representing a corrective to the European bias of midcentury canonical modernism and a proud reassertion of home-grown American art. This selection of small format paintings is a reminder of the breadth of the museum’s holdings in this area. Oil and brush conjure the illusion of near and far persuasively, from the close perspective of still life, to the life-size proportions of bust portraiture, to sublime expanses of land and sky. Whether within hand’s reach or at an immeasurable distance, both types of visual experience are captured within the confines of a canvas no more than 15 inches in diameter. Naotaka Hiro, Untitled (Idling), 2018 Acrylic and graphite on paper • Santa Barbara Museum of Art Museum purchase with funds provided by The Basil Alkazzi Acquisition Fund © Naotaka Hiro

I N T H E M E A N W H I L E…R EC EN T AC Q U I S I T I O N S O F C O N T EM P O R A RY A R T This exhibition highlights recent acquisitions to the museum’s permanent collection of contemporary art. Featuring over 20 artworks, many of the objects are on view at the museum for the first time. These include painted works on paper by emerging artists acquired through the recently established Basil Alkazzi Acquisition Fund. Tying these artworks together is a distinct sense of individuality, innovative use of materials, and playful ambiguity between traditional artistic genres.

T H R O U G H V I N C E N T ’ S E Y E S : VA N G O G H A N D H I S S O U R C E S Enter into the visual world of Vincent van Gogh in this much anticipated international loan exhibition. The show features more than 15 works of art by Van Gogh, and nearly 100 works of art that reconnect him to the many artists and authors that he admired. Encounter stunningly beautiful canvases by this legendary modern master, and discover the depth of Vincent’s visual fluency in the art and literature of his time. The exhibit features pieces by Delacroix, Corot, Monet, Gauguin, Jean-François Raffaëlli, Puvis de Chavannes, Anton Mauve, and more. Featured authors include Honoré de Balzac, Guy de Maupassant, Émile Zola, Charles Dickens, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Edgar Allan Poe. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the world “through Vincent’s eyes.”

38


imagine GALA A BENEFI T FOR

T H E S A N TA B A R B A R A MUSEUM OF ART

C E L E B R AT E

Vincent Van Gogh (1853-1890), Wheat Field (Le Champ de Blé), 1888 Oil on canvas • Honolulu Museum of Art Gift of Mrs. Richard A. Cooke and Family in memory of Richard A. Cooke, 1946

the opening of the new and renovated galleries with us.

EXPERIENCE

Upcoming Events IMAGINE G AL A BENEFIT Be the first to see the results of the $50 million renovation of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art. The front doors will open for an exclusive event; a spectacular reveal of the renovated interior of the museum. There will be three full floors of excitement at this amazing, one-time only, gala fundraising event. Proceeds from this special preview will support the museum’s free educational programs and acclaimed exhibitions.

D Í A D E L O S M U E R T O S C E L E B R AT I O N Each fall, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art honors the Mexican tradition of remembering the dead at their annual Día de los Muertos Celebration, which offers a variety of family activities in and around the museum. This free community event includes music, dance performances, art-making activities, bilingual storytelling, traditional refreshments, and a special display of altars created by school and community groups.

P L E A S E V I S I T W W W . S B M A . N E T F O R U P -T O - D AT E I N F O R M AT I O N .

39

a dramatic reveal of the renovated interior of the Museum at this once-in-a-lifetime, spectacular gala fundraiser.

Ticket, sponsorship, and underwriting information available at

SBMA.NET/IM AGI NE


Painting by Kenneth Daly 1994 Painting by Kenneth Daly 1994

To All Gehache Polo Wives’ in the World To All Gehache Polo Wives’ in the World The Polo Wife’s Oath I promise to attend every game in which my husband is playing. w I will have his whites The Polo Wife’s Oath spotless on game day. w My first priority will be Polo. w The care of polo ponies must come I promise attend every gamewinI will which husband is aplaying. w I will havehome his whites before theto needs of my family. be my ready to drive horse-filled trailer if my spotless on game day. w My first priority will be Polo. w The care of polo ponies must come husband is too tired or indisposed after celebrating his victory. w I will always state that I was before thethe needs ofevery my family. w Iand willthat be ready to drive horse-filled trailer home if was my watching game minute, each and everya shot made by my husband husband wisItoo or indisposed after celebrating hisatvictory. w I place will always state thatpeople I was amazing. willtired act thrilled to attend the same event the same with the same watching theafternoon, game every and season, that each and every byfeel. my w husband was every Sunday forminute, the entire regardless of shot how made I really I will attend amazing. w I will act thrilled to attend the same event at the same place with the same people the Polo Ball with the same people that I see every Saturday and Sunday at the same place all everylong. Sunday afternoon, forplayers the entire season, of how really feel. wthem I willaway attend season w Although polo enjoy ridingregardless their horses hardIand putting wet, the Polo Ball with the same people that I see every Saturday and Sunday at the same place DO NOT, I repeat, allow this same tawdry behavior to happen to you. w Finally, and mostall season long. w Although polo players riding theirthan horses and putting them away wet, importantly, I will never wearenjoy trousers whiter myhard husband’s polo whites. DO NOT, I repeat, allow this same tawdry behavior to happen to you. w Finally, and most importantly, I will never wear trousers whiter than my husband’s polo whites.

Best Wishes for a Wonderful Season Best Wishes Season Glen Holdenfor anda Wonderful the Holden Family Glen Holden and the Holden Family


WE REMEMBER GLORIA HOLDEN ( 19 2 8 – 2 0 19 )

The polo community grieves the passing of a very special woman, Gloria Holden, who had an indelible impact upon our club and community. We celebrate the years of dedication, friendship, and support that Gloria shared with us. Her contributions to the Santa Barbara Polo Club are a defining part of our history and we stand alongside Ambassador Glen Holden and family in celebrating her legacy for many years to come.


SA N TA BAR BARA’S WO M EN O F PO LO

CL AU D IA Claudia Uretz has worn countless hats over the course of her 30 years in polo: player, matriarch of a polo family of six, mom to a string of ponies, organizer of women’s tournaments, Eldorado Interscholastic polo team coach, and announcer of games. Claudia was teaching dressage and jumping lessons at the L.A. Equestrian Center in the ‘80s when the local polo coach insisted that the instructors from all the equestrian disciplines try polo. She was immediately hooked. She met Mike Uretz through a mutual friend in L.A. and on their first date they attended a high-goal match in Santa Barbara. Three months later, they were married and the following year their first son Wiley was born, followed by Patrick, Tony and Hank. Polo is a shared passion that has brought Claudia and her family together: “My boys always wanted to play polo more than going out for other sports, seeing friends, or going to birthday parties.” The six of them drove to the desert for polo every winter weekend for more than 20 years and would often hold polo strategy meetings along the way. Claudia credits many mentors who helped mould her sons into great polo players. Artie Cameron, Miguel Torres and Andy Smith got them started in the Santa Barbara junior program and Artie shared

SHANNON

a great pony with them named Magico. The boys also benefitted from years of instruction from John Wesley, and all four of them went on to play polo in college. Close friendships with the Brays, Galindos, Angel Romero and the

Retired Marine Corps. Judge Advocate Shannon MacGillivray

Giannicos (to name a few) also define polo for Claudia and her family:

McGraw is relatively new to polo, having started in 2015. A native

the kids loved playing with their friends, and the parents bonded over

of Santa Barbara, she attended college in D.C. and law school in

watching the kids grow up together. All these friendships endure to

Miami and London, receiving an LLM in Intercultural Human

this day.

Rights. Shannon practiced as an attorney all over Central America, South America, and the Caribbean and retired out of the Marine

“Polo friends are like family to us.”

Corps as a Captain. Since returning home to Santa Barbara, Shannon has been an enthusiastic and energetic member of the

Now that the boys are grown Claudia likes to spend her spare time

club, taking on new challenges and opportunities along the way.

playing fun chukkers, low-goal games and women’s tournaments.

She is a regular player in the Pro Pool league, attends junior polo

And her boys are now coaching her at games—making sure mom

with her son Peyton, competes in women’s tournaments and carries

has the best horses to play and as much fun as possible!

the flag to kick off Sunday polo throughout the season.

“It was an honor to serve in the Marine Corps., and it is an honor to run the flag on Sundays. The tradition embodies everything that I love: my country, my horses and the sport that brings us all together.”

Shannon is committed to raising her son Peyton to be a horseman, and she describes the polo community as their “extended family.” When she is not busy at the club, she serves as Veterans Program Manager at Hearts Therapeutic Equestrian Center, honoring veterans through the Equine Services for Heroes Program. The program offers U.S. vets the opportunity to serve others, rehabilitate, learn horsemanship and riding skills, build camaraderie, and connect with other veterans and the community.

42


SARA H Five years ago, Sarah Siegel-Magness signed up for a polo lesson. She had no riding experience and little knowledge of the sport. Since then, she has committed to polo full-time and is now competing in high-goal tournaments in Santa Barbara, Florida, Colorado and the U.K. Sarah’s steep learning curve has been spearheaded by some of the best players and mentors in the industry. Memo Gracida and Joe Henderson got her hooked on the game and helped her invest in her first string of ponies. More recently, Adolfo Cambiaso and Mariano Fassetta have guided her in securing a top string of ponies and challenged her to play in some of the best polo in North America. Having played polo at every level from 0- to 26-Goal, Sarah describes the sport as a humbling experience: “Just when you think you have progressed, you realize how much more there is to learn.” Dedication to becoming a better rider, investment in ponies, surrounding oneself with the best professionals—this is what it takes to truly improve. For men and women playing at any age and any level, Sarah promotes

ROCIO

the sport as one that stimulates the mind, challenges the body, satisfies the competitive urge and provides an outlet from all other distractions: “When you’re on the field you don’t have time to think about yourself, or your problems, or politics, or the world. The only thing that matters is how you play and how you work together as a team.”

Rocio Gonzalez de Narvaez is the founder and designer of Rocio G, a fashion line specializing in artisan leather goods and one-of-a-

Sarah recently became more involved in women’s polo, competing in

kind accessories. Rocio’s connection to SB started at birth when her

the 2019 Women’s PCO and the 2020 Women’s Open. Having made

family traveled here to play in 1980 (the year she was born). Rocio

strong connections with players like Lia Salvo and Sarah Wiseman, she

has returned every summer since then. She and her husband, son

has a newfound respect for competitive women’s polo and the strong

and daughter currently split their time between their home in Santa

group of up-and-coming players.

Barbara, their polo ranch in Pilar and their family compound in Patagonia. The rustic beauty of these locations, polo life, family and

“My goal is to eventually build a team around a top

horses are the inspiration for her designs.

professional player who is a woman.” Image by Snoopy Productions

“The designs are very authentic, sophisticated and also laid back. The business has grown very naturally. It is an extension of my own life.” The Rocio G brand was born out of personal necessity: when pregnant with her first child, she needed a baby bag and couldn’t find anything stylish or unique. And so, she painted two pieces of leather, and had her friend (a horse trainer) sew the leather together. Five years later, Rocio is selling out her designs online and through direct-to-consumer orders. Her bags are also featured in several high-end stores in California, Florida, New York and Texas. Rocio recently collaborated with internationally renowned artist Alejandro Moy, whose polo and equine art has been commissioned by royalty, players and collectors around the world. Rocio was honored to have Moy paint polo scenes on each handmade leather bag and to share these unique works of art with her loyal clientele.

43


Image by Lauren Maeve Photography

A N ITA Anita Avendaño Wulff manages the polo operation and barn for her husband, professional player Santi Wulff, and during the 4 months of the year that she is home in Argentina, she works full time as an equine veterinarian. The largest part of her practice pertains to polo, which runs in her family: her father managed a horse breeding operation in Argentina, and her brother and nephews are professional players. Anita homeschools and teaches her children polo and riding and organizes the annual travel of their family polo operation between California, Florida and Argentina. In her spare time, she also competes in women’s polo. For the past several seasons Anita and Santi have worked alongside long-time friends Henry Walker, and Katy and Nico Peix of the FMB Too polo team. Of the many clubs they have played at in the U.S., the Wulff’s feel most at home in Santa Barbara.

“When we are here, we don’t feel like we are traveling. Everyone is so welcoming, and we are treated like part of the community, not like visitors. The kids love all the families and the summer camps at the club, and Santi and I enjoy all of our good friends.”

J EN NY

Anita has instilled her work ethic and her love for SB polo in her Polo player Jenny Alter is committed to rescuing horses from abuse

two children. Her son and daughter report: “We love Santa Barbara.

and slaughter. She has rescued and re-purposed half a dozen horses

We know all the players’ names and even a lot of dogs’ and horses’

and has been involved as an agent in a multitude of other rescue

names too.” Iñaki wants to be a vet like mom when he grows up, and

operations. In 2017, Jenny was recognized with the Clint Nigle

Emilia wants to be a horse trainer “just like Jenny Alter.”

Horse Welfare Award from the United States Polo Association. Jenny uses her natural horsemanship skills to provide horses the respect, guidance and skills they need to move on in the world. One of the first abused horses she rescued, a black stallion named Zorro, is now a vaulting and trick horse traveling around the country. Jenny’s other rescues have become competitive penning mounts, trail horses, parade, jumping, and working ranch horses. Her current project is a painted horse named Scout, who she is training to be a trick pony and perform in front of large crowds at liberty.

“Rescuing doesn’t solve the problem. We must raise awareness and re-purpose these horses so that they are in service to the community.” Jenny is the founder and president of Prima Polo Productions, renting horses for film and camera productions. Her horses have been featured in U.S. Polo Assn., Ben Heart USA, and Ralph Lauren advertising campaigns as well as in local promotions for music festivals and car shows.

44


Top Polo Ponies

ALL LEVELS LOW TO HIGH GOAL

Come visit us on your next trip Cuatro Vientos | Pilar, Argentina

Agustin Von Wernich T: 54 9 3773 408593 E: conejovw@hotmail.com

Jeff Kazmark T: 805 341 1504 E: jeffkazmark@gmail.com



POLOGRAPHICS David Lominska has been capturing international polo since 1983 and has earned the respect of players and peers across North America, the U.K., Europe, and Africa. His background as a polo player, groom and horse trainer informs his work: very few photographers understand the sport like he does. David spends his summers capturing the action from the fields and sidelines at the Santa Barbara Polo Club. Here we showcase a few of the pinnacle moments from the 2019 season alongside David’s keen observations from behind the lens.

“Just like playing polo, shooting polo is all about anticipation. You must know what is going to happen, when it’s going to happen, and where it’s going to happen. And always be ready for the next play.”

47


"Polo is t he most natural sp or t for horses. If you put a group of horses in a pa sture, you’ll se e t hem mak ing all t he same movement s a s t hey do on t he p olo f ield; I love t he sp or t for t hat .� 48


“O ne of my favorite natural shot s is of gro o ms and t heir horses. I love to se e t hem interac t ing b ecause when you’re a gro o m t he horses are ever y t hing. I love t hose unguarded mo ment s. I t hink it ’s imp or t ant to empha size t he care and resp ec t t hat p olo horses receive.”

49


“Not only are there great shot s on the field, there are also great shot s off the field. In Santa Barbara all the horses are walked down to the field and it ’s like watching a beautiful parade. The tack, the gear, the colored bandages and jerseys—all of it is very picturesque and so unique to the sport of polo.”

POLOGRAPHICS.COM

Stress-Free Dental Care INVISALIGN DENTAL BRACES | TEETH CLEANING | DENTAL IMPLANTS | EMERGENCY SERVICES | COSMETIC TREATMENTS 2017 Chapala St. Santa Barbara California, 93105 | (805) 560-9999 | sbdentalspa.com sbdentalspa

SBDentalspa

Santa Barbara Dental Spa

50


FROM THE COURTS Beneath blue skies and tucked away from the busy outside world, tennis enthusiasts step into a haven for competitive play, social gatherings and skill development at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. Director of Tennis Stephanie Stone’s philosophy that “it’s never too early or too late in life to pick up a racquet” is evidenced by the myriad of programs thoughtfully developed to appeal to players ranging from early preschool through the golden years. The well-regarded tennis team includes Tennis Ambassador Bart Hillock, Head Professional Lance Kronberg, Sara Scott and Ishanka Mohottige, warmly referred to as “Sharky.” Each accomplished in their own right, the tennis team offers a curated selection of programs for club members. Aside from lessons and organized match play, those looking to tap into their competitive drive are encouraged to join one of the interclub or club leagues offered for both men and women from USTA levels 3.0 to 5.0 and a variety of age groups. Clinics are held regularly to assist players in up leveling their skill and also to introduce people to the sport. The ladies beginner clinic is specifically designed for those looking to start playing and to help players who have been away from the sport regain their confidence on the court. Themed tennis mixers are a member favorite. From Fourth of July pie contests and match play in Wimbledon Whites, there is an event for each member to look forward to.

The youngest members of the community enjoy their summer vacation on the court during the eight weeks of junior camp. Two weeks of advanced camps designed for competitive high school players are offered alongside the junior camp. Each session begins with athletic skill development and games led by instructors to help highlight and develop specific techniques with an emphasis on stroke development. Prizes, pizza parties and a daily splash in the pool round out a fun-filled week for participants. Five of the camp instructors and assistants came through the club’s programs and summer camps, and they create an inviting atmosphere that keeps participants coming back each season.

A DYNAMIC DUO Luke Williams and Austin Stone joined the club’s tennis community just as they were able to hold a racquet on their own. They have climbed the ranks, competing both as a team and against each other. After many hours spent on the court practicing and improving, the club has become a second home to the boys. Austin’s favorite part of the club happens to be the people. “There are so many amazing and supportive people at the club, both members and employees.” Luke looks forward to the junior summer camps, where he now acts as a coach to younger players. “I really enjoy the opportunity to coach at the club’s summer camps and gift others the incredible sport of tennis.” With sights set on tennis scholarships and collegiate level play, the future is bright for these two young players.

51


1

2

3

4

6

5

7

8

9

1: Arshia & Serafina Rois 2: Bob Puetz, Chuck Stumpf, Charles Ward, Tara Gray & guest 3: Linda & Dan Walker 4: Emily Cosentino, Leisa Cosentino, Ann Mitchelson, Susan Bradley & Katherine Bradley 5: F&MB Fan Club 6: Erin & Henry Walker 7: Jake Klentner, Luke Klentner & Carter Thicke 8: John Muse & Mario Vega 9: Mindy & Justin Mahy

52


1

2

SOCIAL GALLERY 3

4

6

7

5

1: Margarita & Chuck Lande 2: Victoria, Teddy & Wesley Ru, Paige Beard, Dr. Madison Richardson & guests 3: Mary Hiller, Megan Llambias, Emilia Wulff, Kristen Hiller, Lucia & Amelia Llambias & Constance Churchman 4: Santi Wulff, Anita Avendaño Wulff & son Iñaki 5: Andy Jr. & Andy Busch 6: Mindy & Chris Denson, Lisa & Michael Amador & guests with David Sigman 7: Sapa-Gipsy Farms team 53


1

2

3

4

6

5

7

8

1: Amanda Masters, Carter Thicke & Gina Tolleson 2: Ursula & Pat Nesbitt & guests 3: Claudia & Mike Uretz 4: Dr. Richard & Annette Caleel, Doreen & Joel Ladin 5: Marcos Alberdi, Geronimo Obregon, Jesse Bray, Justin & Vivi Klentner 6: Jeep & Sharon Holden 7: June Mayer, guest, Dr. Toby Mayer & guest 8: Erlyne & Curt Whiteman & guests

54


1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1: Luz Cabrera & Agustina Sanchez Zuzaniuk 2: Lauren Paige, Lorraine Estime, Simone Sarter & Griffin Dellaverson 3: Bob Fell & Chuck Lande 4: Kim Busch & Folded Hills guests 5: Sara Rotman, Leigh Brecheen, Cory Williams & Elizabeth Humphreys 6: Erica Dudley, Lacey Winterton, Melanie Gonzales & families 7: Gimena & Ben Soleimani 8: Ron Macleod & son 55


1

2

3

4

6

5

7

8

1: Mia Bray 2: Nacho & Delfina Figueras & Dan Walker 3: Helen Cabrera, Juan Monteverde & son Rosendo 4: Sterling Giannico, Josephine Hermans & Emily Walkup 5: Guest & Ken Berry 6: Cristina Criado, Helena Cabrera, Juana Criado & Aurora Figueras 7: Shannon McGraw & Ron Singer 8: Johnny & Wendy Walker

56


1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

1: Sheri & Bruce Vincent 2: Dan DeMeyer, Andrew & Amza Bossom, Dominique Mielle & Juan Carrillo 3: Jerry Cupit & Mindy Denson 4: Jef Graham, Ivan Weiss & Katie Graham 5: Eileen Dill, Ali Alstrand, guests & Tracy Simerly 6: Enzo & Julio Zavaleta 7: Ambassador Glen Holden with junior players 8: Francisco, Luis & Nico Escobar 9: Jenny Alter & Melanja Jones 57


1

2

3

4

6

5

7

1: Guest, Brian Fagan & Patricia 2: Paul Delagnes, Diana Lippert & Gilbert Delagnes 3: Jorge Cernadas, Facundo Obregon, Jeff Hall & John Muse 4: Nigel Gallimore & Richard Mineards 5: Mary Stark & guests 6: Lesa & Eva Slaughter 7: de Narvaez family

58


Over 30 years of providing quality equipment and service

Equipment, tack, mallets, barn supplies, feed, supplements – Everything for the horse and rider Located at Santa Barbara Polo Club (Carpinteria) & Eldorado Polo Club (Indio) www.jhhe.com | 760 342 2212 | jhhepolo@gmail.com |

@jacksonholeemporium

THE HEART OF POLO IN THE DESERT FOR OVER 60 YEARS Eldorado Polo Club in the perfect place to enjoy world class polo in the beautiful Coachella Valley playing January through March. Whether you wish to check out a match with family & friends in the warm California winter sun or try your own hand at the game, there is no better place!

SUNDAY POLO EVENTS - CANTINA RESTAURANT - PROFESSIONAL LEAGUES AMATEUR LEAGUES - ONSITE POLO ACADEMY - CORPORATE EVENTS

WWW.ELDORADOPOLOCLUB.COM


T OURN A ME N T W INNE RS 2019 16 GOA L SE RIE S S I LV E R A I R PA C I F I C C O A S T O P E N

WINNERS: FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK

MVP: SANTIAGO TOCCALINO

Lucas Escobar, Santiago Toccalino, Juan Monteverde, Dan Walker

BEST PONY: PENULTIMO

60


16 GOA L SE RIE S BELMOND EL ENC ANTO ROBERT SKENE TROPHY

WINNERS: FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK Henry Walker, Santi Wulff, Felipe Marquez, Benjamin Avendano MVP: SANTI WULFF | BEST PONY: ABEJA Presented by Curtis Skene

FA R M E R S & M E R C H A N T S BA N K U S PA A M E R I C A C U P

WINNERS: FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK Lucas Escobar, Felipe Vercellino, Juan Monteverde, Dan Walker MVP: JUAN MONTEVERDE | BEST PONY: BROOKSHIRE

61


FOLDED HILLS POPE CHALLENGE

WINNERS: ANTELOPE JUNIOR Herndon Radcliff, Felipe Vercellino, Jimmy Wright, Grant Palmer MVP: JIMMY WRIGHT | BEST PONY: QUE VA

12 GOA L S E RIE S KOPU LISLE NIXON MEMORIAL

WINNERS: ANTELOPE JUNIOR Herndon Radcliff, Felipe Vercellino, Jimmy Wright, Grant Palmer MVP: FELIPE VERCELLINO | BEST PONY: MINIMA

62


R A M S E Y A S H P H A LT V I C G R A B E R C U P

WINNERS: FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK Matt Walker, Lucas Criado, Dan Walker, Santiago von Wernich, Lucitas Criado MVP: DAN WALKER | BEST PONY: MUNECA

12 GOA L S E RIE S LU C C H E S E U S PA I N T R A - C I R C U I T

WINNERS: FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK Matt Walker, Lucitas Criado, Felipe Marquez, Dan Walker MVP: FELIPE MARQUEZ | BEST PONY: BARBARITA

63


U S PA C A R P I N T E R I A C U P

WINNERS: SAPA POLO Sam Farahnak, Juan Monteverde, Lucitas Criado, Igor Seyranov

8 GOAL SERIES

MVP: JUAN MONTEVERDE | BEST PONY: CREMITA

BELL A V I S TA D E S IGNS US PA PR E S I D EN T’S CUP

WINNERS: SAPA-GIPSY FARMS Paige Beard, Santi Wulff, Max Menini, Igor Seyranov

MVP: SANTI WULFF | BEST PONY: CASANOVA

U S PA W I C K E N D E N C U P

WINNERS: BENSOLEIMANI.COM Santiago von Wernich, Jemma Contreras, Remy Muller, Ben Soleimani

MVP: REMY MULLER | BEST PONY: CASANOVA Presented by Jackson Hole Horse Emporium

64


J A M E S C O LT C L A S S I C

WINNERS: QUITE ON Z Lucitas Criado, Alecia Seidler, Felipe Vercellino, Alonso Cruz Andrade, Elizabeth Humphreys, Paige Beard, Victoria Seidler

MVP: LUCITAS CRIADO | BEST PONY: MINIMA

WINNERS: TWIN PALMS Graham Bray, Chris Maloney (sub. Mia Bray), Ulysses Escapite, Pepe Rodriguez, Winston Painter

MVP: WINSTON PAINTER | BEST PONY: BROOKSHIRE

M O N T E CI TO CUP

WINNERS: KLENTNER RANCH Tony Uretz, Luke Klentner, Toly Ulloa, Jake Klentner

MVP: TOLY ULLOA | BEST PONY: MANTECA

65

RINCON LEAGUE

SUMMERLAND CUP


RINCON LEAGUE

MALIBU CUP

WINNERS: BAROSSA Jef Graham, Santi Trotz, Jimmy Wright, Grant Palmer

MVP: JUAN MONTEVERDE | BEST PONY: CHAVA

WOMEN’S SERIES

W O M E N ’ S PA C I F I C C O A S T O P E N

WINNERS: PLANK CO. Kendall Plank, Ina Lalor, Dayelle Fargey, Cory Williams

MVP: DAYELLE FARGEY | BEST PONY: EBONY

W O M E N ’ S I N V I TAT I O N A L

WINNERS: PONYTAIL POLO/NOBLE WARRIOR Susan Guggenheim, Dayelle Fargey, Mia Bray, Shannon McGraw

MVP: DEVIN COX | BEST PONY: GOSSIP

66


L A ST CHANCE TOURNA MENT

WINNERS: CPC Matt Schwartz, Alejandro Nordheimer, Jayme Stone, Ricardo Caravetti

MVP: MATT SCHWARTZ | BEST PONY: DIVA

A N N UA L AWA R D S

Best String Award: DAN WALKER

Robert Skene Award: FELIPE VERCELLINO

Clint Nagle Award: JUDITH BAKER

Most Improved Player Award: DOMINIQUE MIELLE

Pro Pool High Point Winner (Spring): DOMINIQUE MIELLE

Pro Pool High Point Winner (Fall): DAN/ELENA DE MEYER

67


Congratulations from the Ruffing-Williams family

Inaugural Women’s Pacific Coast Open Winner

PLANK Co. Kendall Plank, Ina Lalor, Dayelle Fargey, Cory Williams

2019


2020 TOURNAMENTS 16 GOAL SERIES

OTHER LEAGUES

Belmond El Encanto Robert Skene Trophy

Spring Pro Pool League

Farmers & Merchants Bank USPA Silver Cup

Camacho Cup: USA vs Mexico

USPA Pacific Coast Open

Fall Pro Pool League Rincon League 6-8 Goal ProAm

USPA 8 GOAL SERIES

Last Chance Tournament

USPA Presidents Cup Jackson Hole Horse Emporium USPA Wickenden Cup

WOMEN’S TOURNAMENTS

12 GOAL SERIES

Women’s Pacific Coast Open 12 Goal Invitational

Folded Hills Pope Challenge Celebrity Cruises USPA Intra-Circuit

YOUTH TOURNAMENTS PTF College Fair & Arena Tournament Miguel Torres / World Gym Linfoot Memorial NYTS

FOR 2020 POLO SCHEDULE UPDATES, VISIT SBPOLO.COM

69


EXCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITIES Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club offers a variety of sponsorship packages for luxury brands. Packages may be customized to meet your unique goals, deliver a successful ROI, and strategically align your brand with high-net-worth clientele. Sponsorship packages may be customized to include tournament naming, signage, trophy presentations, product placement, private corporate hospitality, charity polo events, social media campaigns, and more.

MEMBER BENEFITS

Social Members enjoy all the benefits of our facilities and events, including valet parking, member-exclusive food and beverage, preferred field-side terrace seating, access to seasonal member boxes, discounts on Polo Boutique merchandise, and special pricing for tennis, swim and fitness instruction. Social Members also have the opportunity to enjoy onsite events such as club parties, Friday Happy Hour, the Country Music Festival, the Montecito Motor Classic and the Camelot Horse Show.

SEASONS CATERING Seasons Catering is the official caterer at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club for the 2020 season. The Seasons Catering team, led by Executive Chef and owner Gabrielle Moes, is known for creating memorable events through exquisite food, creative presentation, and impeccable service with a personal touch. They will indulge palates and elevate Sunday polo, clubhouse events, and player receptions this year, and are also available for private and corporate events on-site. The team at Seasons believes that imagination and flavor have no boundaries and they use seasonal, local fair to curate unforgettable menus for our esteemed guests. Away from polo, they are also available to cater the events that matter most to you. They specialize in weddings, non-profit, private and corporate events from Los Angeles to Santa Ynez and come highly recommended by our members and guests. To experience the very best, contact Suzzi at Seasons Catering for your next event: suzzi@seasonscateringca.com

70


GRANDSTAND SEATING MAP ROW 5 ROW 4 ROW 3 ROW 2 ROW 1

SECTION OE

SECTION OD

SECTION OC

SECTION OB

SECTION OA

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.

UNIQUE EVENTS Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is a first-class event facility. We specialize in corporate parties, conferences or team building events and offer unique possibilities for guest entertainment, such as an exhibition polo match. Guest participation options are also available, such as the traditional divot stomp (with champagne of course), golf cart polo, barn tours, or group challenges. Our unique facilities, including three pristine grass polo fields each measuring 300 by 150 yards, allow us to host outdoor events and field sports. We have extensive experience hosting polo tournaments as well as equestrian competitions, car shows, music festivals, and soccer, lacrosse and field hockey tournaments. “One of our favorite events we ever produced was at the Santa Barbara Polo Club… Their staff have a real spirit of collaboration and excellent attention to detail. They truly understand the importance of impeccable customer service.” -California Premier Event Designer

“The exhibition polo match and awards presentation were such fun!” -360 Destination Group

No matter the scale of the event, our reputation for attentive and memorable customer service with well-planned execution and delivery speaks for itself. For more information about hosting your next event with us, contact events@sbpolo.com or (805) 684-6683.

71


P O L O A C A DE M Y

SAND ARENA

S TA BL E S POLO OFFICE

E XERCISE TR ACK

STICK & BALL FIELD

V I S I T O R PA R K I N G MOUNTAIN LOUNGE PRIVATE TENT POLO GRILL & BAR CLUBHOUSE & GRANDSTAND

FIELD ONE

BOUTIQUE POLO LOUNGE

CABANAS

VISITOR ENTR ANCE Via Real

101

M E M BE R ENTR ANCE


Foothill Rd

RACQUET CLUB & ADMIN. OFFICES TENNIS COURTS

POOL

P R I VAT E C O N DO M I N I U M S

Foothill Rd

FIELD THREE

P O L O S TA DI U M

Nidever Rd

HOLDEN GRANDSTAND FIELD T WO

Via Real

101


RULES OF POLO GENERAL RULES •

The object of the game is to move the polo ball down-field through the goal posts to score.

Polo teams change direction after each goal in order to equalize field and weather conditions. The polo field measures 300 yards long by 160 yards wide.

A team is made up of four players and each is assigned a handicap up to 10. The higher the handicap, the better the player.

There are 7 ½ minutes in each chukker (or period of play) and players are permitted 3 minutes between chukkers in order to change ponies.

The rules of polo are intended to ensure the safety of polo ponies and players. The basic concept is the line of the ball, a rightof-way established by the path of the traveling ball. An 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.

P OLO TER M S NEAR-SIDE The left-hand side of a pony.

BACK SHOT Backhand swing, changing the flow of play by sending the ball in the opposite direction.

OFF-SIDE The right-hand side of a pony.

CHUKKER A period of play in polo, lasting 7 ½ minutes.

RIDE-OFF A defensive attempt to move a player off the line of the ball by making shoulder-to-shoulder contact with an opponents’ pony.

BALL Polo balls are made of plastic and measure approximately 3 ½ inches in diameter.

SUDDEN DEATH If the score is tied at the end of the game, teams play overtime and the first team to score wins.

FLAGMAN An unofficial goal observer appointed to signal a goal is scored by waving the flag over head, or no goal is scored by waving the flag below the waist.

THIRD MAN A Referee on the sidelines of the field. If the umpires on the field are in disagreement, the Third Man makes the final decision.

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

THROW IN Umpires start or resume play by rolling the ball down the center of a line up of players and ponies.

MALLET A cane shaft measuring 51 to 54 inches with a 9-inch wooden head. Players use the wide face of the head to hit the ball.

UMPIRE Two mounted officials on the field are responsible for enforcing the rules of play.

74


@USPOLOASSN


new & renovated galleries opening fall 2020 Christian Adolf Schreyer (German, 1828-1899, active France) | Artillery Shell: War in the Desert, n.d. Oil on canvas, 39 ¾ x 62 ¾ in. | SBMA, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John J. Mitchell (1971.1)

IMAGINE GALA BENEFIT THROUGH VINCENT’S E YES: VAN GOGH AND HIS SOURCES D Í A D E L O S M U E R T O S - F R E E F A M I LY D AY

S B M A . N E T/ I M A G I N E


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.