2023 SCORE Magazine

Page 1

2023
NOVEMBER 26
1926 - NOVEMBER 7
MICHAEL BUTLER
TH ,
TH , 2022
Call/Text: 630-903-6711 • bshades.com • 17W508 22nd Street • Oakbrook Terrace SHOP WHERE YOU WANT...WHEN YOU WANT. IN YOUR HOME OR IN OUR SHOWROOM! Pirouette® Window Shadings MENTION POLO AND RECEIVE FREE INSTALLATION * NOW THROUGH OCTOBER 31ST, 2023 *Orders over $2,500. ©2023 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

T HE HARDEST PART OF OWNING A WORK OF ART?

D ECIDING WHO INHERITS IT.

Our runabouts aren’t just boats—they’re 26', 430 horsepower heirlooms. So while choosing to enjoy your summers from the mahogany and chrome cockpit might be a no-brainer, let’s just say, we hope you only have one heir.

GRANDCRAFT.COM
CONTENTS 10 WELCOME 16 THE PLAYBOOK The 2023 Polo Playbook lays out the season schedule (18), Oak Brook Polo Team players (20), clubs (22), and the rules of the game (24). 30 POLO: A SPECTATOR EXPERIENCE Everything you need to know about watching polo: from seats to food and drink to fashion tips 39 THE STRING The equine athletes that take the sport of polo from 0 to 100 48 MICHAEL BUTLER A Passion For Polo by Zia Wesley & Michelle Butler 60 OAK BROOK POLO CLUB 100 YEAR TIMELINE Highlights and Milestones from the past 100 years 70 POLO GALLERIES 100th Anniversary Polo Gala, Power, Pageantry, Friends and Family 5

OAK BROOK POLO CLUB

Posthumous Honorary Chairman: Michael Butler

President: James Drury

Oak Brook Polo Team Principle: Christopher Vangel

Executive Director: Daniel O’Leary

Managing Supervisors: Hollis Onetto, Whitney Siebens, KimC Miller, Dolores Onetto and Judith Coleman

Polo Announcers: Timm McIntyre & Mark Cope

Photography: Jan Salazaar, Bari Baskin, Judith Coleman, Andrew Meier, Leah Lewis and Petro Kouton

Polo & Field Management: Michael Sauls, Jason Lewis, and Brightview Landscape Services

Oak Brook Polo Academy: Jenna Davis and Turner Wheaton

Chicago Polo Association Executive Director: Pam Mudra

United States Polo Association Central Circuit Governor: Clifton Yandel

Media Partners: Modern Luxury, Chicago Tribune, Lifestyle The Community Source Book

Oak Brook Polo Board of Advisors: Beverly & Roger Taylor, John Baar, Karl Maurer, Nicholas Vangel, Bob Puetz, Edward Tiesenga, and Dr. Suresh Reddy

SCORE MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher: Outside The Boards™ & Hinge Design

Art Director: Leigh McKenzie, Hinge Design

Copy Editors: Beverly Taylor, Zia Wesley, Reute Butler, Norma Cooke and Daniel O’Leary

Cover: Michael Butler’s 90th Birthday

Back: Laurence Jurdem, Jorie Waterman, Reute Butler, Adam Butler

Front: Jorie Butler Kent, Michael Butler, Wendy Dunaway, Liam Butler and Michelle Butler

Photographer: Dana Patrick

Contributors: Michael Butler, Jorie Butler Kent, Norma Cook, Reute Butler, James Drury, Pam Mudra, Daniel O’Leary, Turner Wheaton, Museum of Polo, Village of Oak Brook Historical Society

Special Recognition: David Lind, John Grissim, Greg Summers, Connie Reid, Gopal Lalmalani, Netasha Scarpiniti, Pam Mudra, Geroge Alexander, Larry Aschebrook, Reute Butler, Jorie Butler Kent, Norma Cook, Sue Mitchell, Clifton Yandell, Angelo Kleronomos, Bob McMurtry, Dr. Paige Billek, Beth Marchetti, Jeffrey Robbins, Jan-Dirk & Frauke Leuders, Horacio Onetto, Shannon Green Robb, Liz Hancock, Tina Gluschenko, Edwin Goitia, Jeff Kawucha, Chandice Kuhnen, Chris Vangel, Chicago Sports Commission, Enjoy Illinois, Choose Chicago, DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau, Oak Brook Golf Club, Butler National Golf Club, Oak Brook Sports Core, Premier Soccer Management, Oak Brook Chamber of Commerce, Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame, United States Polo Association, Village of Oak Brook Trustees

Village of Oak Brook President: Laurence “Larry” Herman

Village of Oak Brook Trustees: James Nagle, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Michael Manzo, Edward Tiesenga, Asif Yusuf and Naveen K. Jain.

Printed in the United States at Lithoprint © 2023 Pineoak Partners, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole in part of any material in the magazine is expressly prohibited. 6

A MOMENTOUS JOURNEY

When I took my first polo lesson in 1982, I could not have imagined that we would be together this past year celebrating our Oak Brook Polo Club’s 100th Anniversary. Our Club was founded in 1922 by Paul Butler, of Irish ancestry, and President of the family-founded Butler Paper Company (the world’s largest paper merchant). After the Great Chicago Fire, the Butler family moved west, accumulating 5,800 acres of oak tree forests, dairy land, open fields, and winding brooks. As equestrian activities had long been enjoyed by the family, the land was eventually graced with 36 miles of bridle paths, fox hunting, 14 polo fields, 3 airfields, and eventually the Butler National Golf Club, founded in 1972.

When the epicenter of U.S. polo, New York’s Meadowbrook Polo Club, was sold, the prestigious U.S. Polo Open Championship,

OUR LOYAL GUESTS,

and the United States Polo Association (USPA), relocated to Oak Brook Polo Club headquarters in 1954, continuing here for 22 years. Paul Butler’s high-goal polo team featured one of America’s greatest polo players, Cecil Smith, rated 10-goals for 24 years. During that period, the Oak Brook team won 6 U.S. Open Championships. Paul’s children, Jorie and Michael, and grandchildren, Reute and Adam, all played the sport. Jorie became one of the first women elected to the USPA. Her Abercrombie & Kent Polo team won two U.S. Open Championships, with Prince Charles playing the number 4 position when the team was in England.

Our Club’s special relationship with Great Britain has continued over the years, with HRH Charles, then Prince of Wales, returning with his team in 1986. Treated to a royal reception by the city of Chicago, the occasion of the polo match was covered by television, and attended by an estimated 5,000 spectators. The Prince responded most graciously by defeating our Oak Brook team, in an intense match, 12-10.

This past season, the British team returned to Oak Brook to join us in celebrating our 100th Anniversary. In keeping with past tradition,

our guests in attendance were treated to one of our Club’s most memorable polo matches. Your host team trailed by several goals throughout the match. Entering the final chukker, down 7-5, Oak Brook managed to close the gap, 7-7. With seconds remaining on the clock, and a “throw-in” at midfield –our team Captain, Horacio Onetto, broke away on his favorite pony, Papaya, to score the winning goal – putting Oak Brook on the trophy stand to hoist the Butler Challenge Cup – and to be doused with champagne by our British friends.

ETERNAL GRATITUDE

It has been my esteemed privilege to be the custodian of the Oak Brook Polo Club since 2016. Then, as the only team Patrone not owning a private polo field, Oak Brook’s Butler National – Cecil Smith Polo Field served as my Pinecroft team’s home field beginning in 2000, 23 years ago. I cannot adequately express what it means to me and my team, both on and off the field, to have returned to the Cecil Smith Field this past season –home of the U.S. Polo Open for 24 years, and considered hallowed ground by many in the polo world.

8

In partnership with our Club’s Managing Director, Danny O’Leary, we have much to be grateful for. Polo has once again emerged as a prominent, professional team sport in Chicago. Only three professional sports franchises are older – the White Sox, Cubs, and Bears. Attendance has quadrupled since 2016, and participation is strong, as polo students, young and old, have enrolled for instruction with our Oak Brook Polo Academy. One only needs to attend our Oak Brook polo matches to recognize that our sport’s brand image has never been more accessible, diverse, and inclusive.

Having announced my retirement from polo, after 40 years as an active player, following our extraordinary match against Great Britain last season, I plan to continue my oversight of the Oak Brook Polo Club as its Chairman and President, for the foreseeable future. We are also pleased to share that a new partnership has been formed with the Arranmore Polo Club in Naperville, providing a venue for additional polo competition during the week, as well as an expanded training facility for our growing Oak Brook Polo Academy.

I would also like to acknowledge some of the people who have been so helpful to me during my early polo career and since taking the helm of the Oak Brook Polo Club. The late Walt and Shirley Kuhn, who taught me the game, and their sons, John and Dick, my first professional teammates. My longtime groom, Nina Gowl, who took care of me and my ponies for 26 years. Other prominent local Patrones, who put teams on the field – John Greene of Arranmore Polo Club, Angelo Kleronomos of Morgan Creek Polo Club, and George Alexander of Blackberry Polo Club. And, finally, local residents who have supported our interests every step of the way. Oak Brook Trustees John Baar and Ed Tiesenga, and Village residents Cathy Maher, Bev & Roger Taylor, and Jim Pehta, and one of our most loyal sponsors, Karl Maurer, of Merrill Lynch, and his courageous son Dominic – our biggest fan, and the one we first look to for inspiration before every match.

Finally, my gratitude to my most beloved polo ponies, who served and protected me over my long career – most notably, Picassa, Lucy, Danny, Apache, Ringo, and Ricky Bobby. And, of course, Ventidos, one of my best, who

suffered a potentially career-ending injury, miraculously cared for by Dr. John Kuhn of the Duwayne Clinic, and rehabilitated by Kate and Katie of Unbridled Equine Clinic. Returning to the field midway through the 2022 season, he played for me in my final match against Great Britain, and was awarded “Best Playing Pony” honors – to be promptly re-christened with the name “Milagro” (miracle).

It's been a wonderful ride, and

“I look forward to seeing you at the field.”

9

the playbook

15

SUNDAY POLO SEASON

OAK BROOK POLO CLUB

Sunday Polo Season:

From June 25th – September 24th

Regular Schedule:

Gates Open at 1pm | Match starts at 3 pm

Follow us on social media:

TICKET & EVENT INFORMATION

For updates on ticket information, team match-ups, and events, and to subscribe to our SCORE E-Bulletin, please visit our website at www.oakbrookpoloclub.com

For direct inquires, please email info@oakbrookpoloclub.com or leave a voicemail on our hotline at (847) 653-6242

DATE MATCH

JUNE 25

JULY 16

JULY 23

JULY 30

AUGUST 13

AUGUST 20

AUGUST 27

SEPTEMBER 10

SEPTEMBER 17

SEPTEMBER 24

BUTLER CHALLENGE CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

GENERAL GEORGE S. PATTON JR. CUP

GENERAL GEORGE S. PATTON JR. CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

FERRARI HORSES & HORSEPOWER

MIDWEST WOMEN'S POLO OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

OAK BROOK POLO OPEN

OAK BROOK POLO OPEN

OAK BROOK POLO OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

BUTLER INTERNATIONAL CUP

BUTLER INTERNATIONAL CUP CHAMPIONSHIP

U.S. Polo Assn. Cecil Smith Field, 700 Oak Brook Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

General Parking: Christ Church, 501 Oak Brook Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

16

CHICAGO POLO SEASON

THE CHICAGO POLO ASSOCIATION (“CHICAGO POLO”) IS AN ESTABLISHED NETWORK OF 14 POLO FACILITIES AND EIGHT USPA MEMBER POLO CLUBS THAT HAVE FORMED A STRONG COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT THE GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY OF POLO IN THE CHICAGOLAND AREA AND WESTERN SUBURBS. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CHICAGOLAND’S POLO COMMUNITY, VISIT CHICAGO-POLO.COM.

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY + FLATBED CONCERT SERIES AT ARRANMORE FARM & POLO CLUB

JULY 12

JULY 19

JULY 26

AUGUST 2

AUGUST 9

AUGUST 16

Gates Open: 5:30 PM

Game Starts: 6:00 PM

6-GOAL LEAGUE

Summer Opener - 6/9-6/16

Congressional Cup - 6/21-6/30

Constitution Cup - 7/5-7/14

Masters Cup - 7/19-7/28

Governor’s Cup - 8/2-8/11

Players Cup - 8/16-8/25

Windy City Cup - 9/6-9/15

Autumn Cup - 9/20-9/22

10-GOAL LEAGUE

Arranmore Farm & Polo Club’s casual, tailgating Wine Down Wednesday Polo has become a fan favorite! Grab your friends, load them in the car, and head out to the farm for the ultimate polo BYOB tailgating experience! Bring blankets, folding tables, and chairs. This season enjoy your favorite craft beer, sangria, or wine from Tapville Social, and some delicious eats from Allegory at every Wine Down Wednesday! Arranmore is proud to bring back the "Flatbed Concert Series" for W.D.W. events brought to you by Gerald Auto Group. Some of Arranmore's favorite Musicians from the Arranmore family will help us to keep the party going with a special set of up-close and personal jams, from a super cool stage, set in the back of a beautiful Gerald pickup truck.

Location: Arranmore Farm & Polo Club - 34 Rance Road, Oswego, IL 60543 For Tickets & Event Information visit www.arranmorefarmandpoloclub.com

14-GOAL TOURNAMENTS

Las Brisas Chicago Polo Invitational - 7/25-8/5

Midwest Open - 8/8-8/19

SPECIALTY GRASS TOURNAMENTS

4th of July Cup (BHPC) - 7/2 - 7/3

NYTS and Junior Tournament (BHPC + LB) - 7/8 - 7/9

Senior Cup (Blackberry) - 7/15-7/16

Amateur Cup (0-2 goal)(Blackberry) - 8/11-8/13

Midwest Women’s Polo Open – 8/9 – 8/13

LeCompte Kalaway Cup (BHPC) - 9/9

Butler Challenge Cup - 6/15-6/25

Centennial Cup - 6/29-7/9

General George S. Patton Jr. Cup - 7/13-7/23

Oak Brook Polo Open - 8/24-9/10

Butler International Cup - 9/15-9/24

Magnolia Cup (2 flights) (BHPC) - 9/16 - 9/17

ARENA TOURNAMENTS

Great Lakes Cup (Arena Admiral Chester W. Nimnitz) - 5/27-5/28

John Rosene Arena Challenge (Arena Amateur Cup) - 7/22-7/23

Les Baddeley Memorial Cup (2 flights) - 9/30-10/1

Octoberfest Cup (Arena Sportsmanship Cup) - 10/7-10/8

17

PROS

OAK BROOK PROS

Derek Berg

AGE: 28

HOMETOWN:

Watertown, Minnesota

Outdoor Handicap: 1

Arena Handicap: 2

Horacio Onetto

AGE: 47

HOMETOWN: Buenos Aires, Argentina

Outdoor Handicap: 4

Arena Handicap: 6

Lindor Novillo Corvalan

AGE: 37

HOMETOWN: Corboda, Argentina

Outdoor Handicap: 4

Arena Handicap: 4

Chris Vangel

AGE: 52

HOMETOWN: Chicago, Illinois

Outdoor Handicap: 1

Arena Handicap: 2

Position #3 Position #4 Position #2 Position #1
18

CONTINENTAL AUTOSPORTS

No automobile expresses Italian excellence like Ferrari, and Continental AutoSports embodies the spirit of the Prancing Horse, whose greatest mission is to make your ownership experience as memorable as it is exceptional. We’re proud of our showroom, including our selection of Certi ed Pre-Owned Ferraris, and our team of professionals, each of whom is dedicated to providing the nest sales, service, and support in the industry.

We look forward to welcoming you.

420 E. Ogden Avenue

Hinsdale, IL 60521

Tel, (630) 655-3535

KW@ContinentalAutoSports.com

https://chicago-continental.ferraridealers.com

Ferrari.com

OFFICIAL FERRARI DEALER

CHICAGO POLO

The Chicago Polo Association (“Chicago Polo”) is an established network of fourteen polo facilities and eight USPA member polo clubs that have formed a strong community to support the growth and sustainability of polo in the Chicagoland area and Western Suburbs. Arranmore Farm & Polo Club, Barrington Hills Polo Club and Oak Brook Polo Club serve as the three clubs that welcome spectators to weekly or select scheduled events during the season, while others offer a venue for safe and competitive tournament and league polo for the community’s 180+ players and students. The Chicago Polo Association is a non-profit corporation currently seeking 501(c)(3) status.

OAK BROOK POLO CLUB

Oak Brook, IL

Founded in 1922 by businessman Paul Butler, the club is one of the oldest polo clubs in the U.S. and was once the epicenter for elite professional polo and other prestigious polo tournaments. For decades, the club has been a popular Sunday tradition and social scene known for entertaining celebrities, dignitaries, royalty, and Chicago’s distinguished. Today, the club plays on the Cecil Smith Field adjacent to the Butler National Golf Club. Located 17 miles straight west from Chicago’s Loop, the club hosts regular Sunday matches and polo lessons at the Oak Brook Polo Academy in Bolingbrook, Illinois.

WINDRIDGE FARM

Bolingbrook, IL

Located 30 minutes from downtown Chicago, Windridge Farm is an equestrian hunter jumper facility with polo benefits. The facility has two indoor arenas, two outdoor arenas, and one polo field on a 60-acre property that supports both the equestrian and polo programs. Windridge Farm offers its boarders exceptional, individualized equine care. It provides a goal-oriented lesson program taught by experienced professionals. When it comes time to purchase a horse, the expert sales team at Windridge Farm will match you with the horse that is right for your ability, as well as your budget.

ARRANMORE FARM & POLO CLUB

Oswego, IL

Situated on 300 acres of family-owned and operated land, Arranmore is home to some of the area’s most pristine fields. Each summer, the club hosts players from around the world who are drawn by a shared passion for the sport. Located 40 minutes from downtown Chicago, the club has held private polo matches since 1999 and opened its gates for the club’s first public polo matches in 2015. Its summer calendar also includes a series of outdoor music concerts, festivals, and charity events. Arranmore is also a working polo farm including six stables, large pastures, a clubhouse, and a historic farmhouse.

FONT FAMILY FARM

Plano, IL

Font Family Farm was established in 2008 with the purpose of learning, improving, and playing polo, and providing the community with riding, horsemanship, and stabling opportunities. The club’s facility includes an outdoor polo field, an outdoor arena, an indoor polo arena, 40 horse stalls, and turnout paddocks. The Font Family is committed to welcoming newcomers to the exciting family of polo lovers who cherish the game.

THE CLUBS
20

BLACKBERRY POLO CLUB Batavia, IL

The Blackberry Polo Club was organized on George and Barb Alexander’s Lake Run Farm in Batavia, Illinois in 1986 as a venue for recreational polo. Practice sessions and matches with visiting teams, followed by a gathering under the trees with a nearby smoking grill and cold keg are the Blackberry tradition. The club hosts numerous league tournament matches, including a USPA National Youth Tournament Series and a Polo Training Foundation Seniors’ Tournament each summer season.

LAS BRISAS FARM AND POLO CLUB Elgin, IL

The Las Brisas Polo Club was founded in 2019. The 60-acre farm hosts 80 stalls, 10 turnouts, exercise track, locker room, 2 regulation polo fields, and an outdoor arena. Las Brisas is home to the G Squared Polo Team and the summer home to the GOPOLO Polo School. G Squared Polo teams have participated globally in 8-20 goal tournaments. The GOPOLO Polo School is run by Certified Polo Instructor, Juan Martin Gutierrez. The polo school caters to new and amateur players. GOPOLO offers a polo school with group lessons, private lessons, horses for lease, and everything you need to get started as a new player. To continue beyond the polo school, GOPOLO hosts club-level 4-chukker tournaments for the -2 to 1 goal players throughout the summer and early fall. When you are ready to step-up, GOPOLO can find the right polo pony for you.

MORGAN CREEK POLO CLUB Yorkville, IL

The Morgan Creek Polo Club was founded in 1995 by Angelo Kleronomos and his son Dean Kleronomos. The 200-acre horse farm in rural Oswego, Illinois, has two polo fields, an indoor arena, a clubhouse, player and groom apartments, 40 stalls, 10 large turnouts, and a galloping track. Morgan Creek teams have participated in 8–22 goal polo in Wellington, Aiken, Oak Brook, and Chicago. Angelo and Dean have played internationally in Canada, France, Germany, and Argentina.

DUE WEST POLO Oswego, IL

The Due West Polo Club was established in 2002 by Clifton Yandale. The 35-acre farm’s polo field serves as a practice field for players and teams in the area. People from the Chicago polo community assemble at Due West on Tuesdays for casual practice chukkers to get some time in on the field and to socialize with others in the polo community. The club also serves as a field for tournament competition. Friends and family dot the hill overlooking the field and players will often stay after the game to grill and take in the incredible sunset before heading home.

PASSION FOR POLO

Barrington Hills, IL

When Frauke and Jan-Dirk Lueders caught the polo bug in 2013, they eagerly sought out a place to develop their skills and their string of horses. Since they purchased the property that is now the Passion for Polo Farm in 2013, their polo string has grown from 4 to 17, and they have completed construction on the only regulation-size indoor polo arena in the Midwest. They have also developed a full-size outdoor grass field where they host friends, develop their Passion for Polo team, and compete in regular tournaments in Chicago and in neighboring states.

BARRINGTON HILLS POLO CLUB

Barrington Hill, IL

Barrington Hills Polo Club offers year-round polo and a polo school. The Barrington Hills Polo Club is dedicated to polo that is accessible, affordable and fun for people who love horses, good times and each other’s company.  Our motto is “Polo Among Friends.”  The club’s focus in on amateur polo. Membership is open to everyone, regardless of skill level -- from “I’ve never played a game in my life” to professional.  Barrington Hills Polo Club is a registered non-profit organization where all club members volunteer to the club’s administration. The club hosts a variety of tournaments and matches including the annual LeCompte Kalaway Cup.

21

SPECTATOR’S GUIDE

Wondering what you're looking at on the field? This guide outlines the basic game rules as well as the exact dimensions of an official polo field. On the field, you can see the six most important player actions during a match (with numbers corresponding to their explanations below). Once you recognize these actions, you will understand 80% of the game. Polo is unpredictable, so if you're confused, listen for our announcer, who will walk you through the rest.

1. RIGHT OF WAY / LINE OF THE BALL

Once a ball is hit, its trajectory establishes the line of the ball. The player closest to the ball with the narrowest angle has the “right of way.”

2. DANGEROUS CROSS

If a player crosses the line of the ball close enough that it is dangerous or approaches the on-line player at too sharp an angle, the umpire will call a foul and penalty shot

3. CROSSING

If a player comes from behind and passes a player with the right of way, they may not cross the line of the ball if it will create a dangerous situation.

4. PENALTY SHOT

Numbered from 1 to 10, a penalty awards a free shot to the fouled player from a set distance determined by the severity of the foul.

5. RIDE-OFF (OR BUMP)

The objective of a ride-off is to prevent an opposing player from taking a shot or to drive the player off the “line of the ball” by pressing the shoulder of one pony into another.

6. HOOKING

A player can hook another player’s mallet to prevent them from hitting if they are on the same side as the ball or directly behind the opposing player.

A POLO FIELD measures 300 x 160 yards (9 acres)—the same area as about 9 regulation NFL fields. While players and ponies can move outside the low wooden border, the ball must stay inside to stay in play.

A GOAL is scored when the ball passes between the goal posts. After each goal, the teams switch directions to equalize field conditions.

A POLO TEAM has four players. Each player is assigned a goal rating (or handicap) based on their experience and skill on the field. Ratings range from a C (or -2) or B (-1) for beginners, all the way up to the rare 10-goal rating. Professional players have a minimum goal rating of 2. Opposing teams are equally matched by adding up the rating numbers of each of their players. If you are watching a 12-goal game, the players’ ratings on each team will add up to a cumulative 12 goals, in order to match skill and experience on the field.

A CHUKKER is a 7-1/2-minute period of play. Low- and medium-goal games have four chukkers and high-goal games have six.

160 YARDS

GOAL: 8 YARDS
22
LINE OF THE BALL
YARDS
23
NFL FOOTBALL FIELD: 120 YARDS X 53 YARDS
300
SAFETY ZONE

PLAYER & PONY

1. POLO MALLET

Between 50” and 54” in length (the most popular length being 52”), the mallet is made of flexible manau rattan cane, composite fibers or a hybrid combination of the two. One end of the shaft is the handle and the other is a cigar-shaped wooden head, approximately 9.25” long.

2. GLOVE

Similar to a batter's glove in baseball, a polo glove protects the inside of the hand from wear and tear as a result of holding the mallet or reins. For added protection, gloves come with knuckle padding to absorb any impact from a mallet, ball, or other player.

3. ELBOW PADS

Elbow guards protect players by absorbing the force of impact from opposing player mallets or flying polo balls.

4. HELMET

Hard, lined helmets protect the player’s head from swinging mallets and balls traveling up to 100 mph. Helmets have added protection to protect the head from a fall to the ground. Face masks can also be attached for better face protection.

5. POLO JERSEY

Player jerseys indicate the team colors, the team sponsor, and the player position on the field, indicated by the numbers 1 to 4.

6. BREECHES

The traditional white breeches worn by polo players can be traced back to the sport’s roots in India, where they preferred lighter clothing (in weight and color) to compete in the often brutal heat. Modern polo players’ white breeches are often made of denim for durability.

7. POLO BOOTS AND KNEE GUARDS

Polo boots and knee pads provide protection for the player’s lower legs and knees, which often bump up against other horses and players.

8. SADDLE AND PAD

Polo saddles are fairly flat with long flaps for a longer leg position. The saddle pad protects the horse, absorbs sweat, and cushions the saddle. Players use little padding to allow for maximum movement.

9. BREASTPLATE

The breastplate secures the saddle during the game.

10. GIRTH

Two or three buckles secure a leather, cloth, or vinyl girth to the saddle to keep it in place during play.

11. STIRRUPS

Polo players look for metal stirrups that are broader than equestrian models to help them stand and maneuver safely.

12. LEG WRAPS

Fleece wraps protect the pony’s legs from the ball, polo mallets, or other ponies.

13. REINS, BIT AND BRIDLE

The player holds leather reins that are attached to each side of a metal bit in the horse’s mouth. The bridle is leather strapping that holds the metal bit in the pony’s mouth. This system is designed to fit the pony comfortably to enable the rider to communicate control signals like direction and stopping during play.

14. WHIP

Whips are made of braided leather or nylon and are used to communicate to polo ponies.

15. SUNGLASSES

Sunglasses are often used by players for eye protection and to help minimize glare from the sun.

16. POLO BALL

Historically made of materials as varied as bamboo, leather-covered cork, willow root, and rubber, 3” outdoor polo balls have been made of plastic since the 1970s. Arena polo balls are inflated leather about 4.5” in diameter.

17. POLO PONY

Polo ponies are thoroughbreds or part thoroughbred and part quarter horse. They stand, on average, 15–16 hands and are selected for their agility, speed, endurance, and intelligence. Because polo ponies run 1–2 miles, often at full speed, during a single chukker, players should have a string of at least one pony per chukker.

24
25

OFFICIAL SCORE SHEET

TEAM: OAK BROOK COLOR: WHITE

TEAM: G-SQUARED COLOR: BLACK

1. A polo team has four players. Each player is assigned a goal rating (or handicap) based on their experience and skill on the field, between -2 and 10.

2. Opposing teams are equally matched by adding up the handicaps of each of their players. In this game, Oak Brook’s handicap ratings add up to 12, and G-Squared adds up to 11, so G-Squared is awarded one extra “goal” to make up for the difference in skill level.

3. Player positions are numbered from 1 to 4. Player 1 is an offensive position that acts as the goal striker. Player 2 is also a forward but will sometimes have to jockey back to defense. Player 3, the “quarterback” of the team, drives the plays forward toward the goal. Player 4 is a defensive player whose main job is to prevent the opposite team from scoring.

4. Each game has 6 chukkers (7-1/2-minute periods of play), with an extra overtime (OT) chukker if the teams are tied.

5. On the official score card, each goal is marked alphabetically, so the card tells the story of the game (first goal is “A”, second goal is “B”, etc.). At the bottom of each chukker column, the goals scored that chukker are noted above the cumulative score. Goals that are circled were scored in a penalty shot.

6. Penalties are numbered from 1 to 10, based on the severity of the foul. A penalty awards a free shot to the fouled player from a set distance determined by the type of penalty. If a penalty shot results in a goal, the penalty number is circled.

7. Total goals are added up for each player.

Handicap Position Player 1 2 3 4 5 6 OT Totals 4 1 Mariano Gutierrez D R 2 4 2 Tomas Obregon A I L 3 4 3 Horacio Onetto B G O T 4 0 4 James Drury F Q 2 12 Totals 2/2 1/3 2/5 1/6 1/7 2/9 2/11 11 Penalty hit 4 2 1 3
Handicap Position Player 1 2 3 4 5 6 OT Totals 3 1 Juan Martin Gutierrez E J 2 4 2 Matias Obregon K M,N 3 4 3 Lindor Novillo Corvalan C S 2 0 4 Larry Aschebrook H P 2 11/1 Totals 1/1 1/2 0/2 3/5 2/7 1/8 1/9 9+1 Penalty hit 5 3
26

POLO A Spectator Experience

28

LAWN GUEST

Perks: Fresh cut lawn, umbrella picnic tables and standing umbrellas available (first come first served).

Polo ponies thunder down the field at speeds of up to 35 mph. Glass in hand, at field level or looking down and across at nine acres of play, you marvel at the sport’s athleticism and horsemanship: adrenaline-pumping action, the best of Chicago’s food and drink, sideline festivities, hobnobbing with the players after the match. At Oak Brook, spectating is a sport!

From the sidelines and stands on the immaculate fields of Oak Brook Polo Club, you will not only witness world-class polo; each Sunday Polo event brings a host of experiences. Throughout the day, look forward to Best Hat and Best Tailgate contests, on-field car shows, local beer and wine tastings, signature cocktails, charity events, fashion and, of course, Champagne divot stomps. Each Sunday offers its own unique curated experience.

SEATING

Polo’s roots may be regal, but the beauty of polo at Oak Brook is that you can make it as casual or as posh as you wish. With much of the seating at polo games fieldside, you can opt for a picnic, tailgating out of a truck or classic car, a simple snack under an umbrella, or an even more elaborate curated affair in the Player's Lounge, one of our fieldside tents, or the Butler Pavilion.

“At Oak Brook, we strive to make polo accessible to everyone and create polo experiences that meet the interests of our spectators,” explains Danny O’Leary, Managing Director of Oak Brook Polo Club. “Want to wow your date with sophistication? Polo is the best first impression. Want an afternoon out with the family? Pack a picnic. Want to celebrate? Pop open the Champagne. Want to reward coworkers or impress your clients? You’re the best boss ever. Want something more laid back and intimate? Fill your car with friends or family, tailgate fieldside, lay out a spread, and watch great polo in a more laid-back atmosphere.”

29

LAWN SEATING & GENERAL ADMISSION

Perks: Free parking and shuttle service from Christ Church to the polo field, open-air field-side lawn or grandstand seating for upfront and elevated views of the game, access to food trucks and walk-up bars.

TAILGATING

Perks: Park your vehicle onsite and field-side for a great view of the match. Each spot comes with a patio umbrella to keep you shaded and cool. Dress up your tailgate to compete in the “Best Tailgate” contest for cool prizes.

SADDLE CLUB SEATING

Perks: Elevated open-air environment that overlooks the polo field. Stand or choose from cocktail table or bar rail seating. Dress up, wear your derby hat and compete in the “Best Hat” contest. Complimentary glass of bubbles during the halftime “Divot Stomp.”

SADDLE CLUB RESERVED TABLE

Perks: Enjoy a private field-side or elevated reserved table, a complimentary bottle of bubbles, complimentary halftime “Divot Stomp” glass of bubbles, field parking pass, and waitstaff to tend to you.

30

PLAYER'S SUITE

Perks: Enjoy your own private field-side lounge inside the Saddle Club with a complimentary bottle of bubbles, SCORE Magazines, halftime “Divot Stomp” glass of bubbles, field parking pass, and waitstaff to tend to you.

LARGE FIELD-SIDE CABANAS

Perks: Premium field-side shaded and outdoor seating with banquet, round and cocktail tables with linens, identifying signage, 50 garden chairs, two complimentary bottles of bubbles, SCORE Magazines and field parking passes. Beverage packages are available for dedicated service.

SMALL FIELDSIDE CABANAS

Perks: Premium field-side shaded and outdoor seating with tables, linens, 20 garden chairs, a complimentary bottle of bubbles, SCORE Magazines, and two field parking passes. Beverage packages are available for dedicated service.

BUTLER PAVILION

Perks: Premium field-side 2,500 sq.ft. tented and outdoor seating, banquet and cocktail tables, linens, 100+ garden chairs, SCORE Magazines, and multiple field parking passes. Ideal for private and charity events with a large number of guests.

CHRIST CHURCH PARKING AND COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE SERVICE ARE AVAILABLE FOR ALL SEATING (EXCEPT TAILGATING).

31
Max power up to 1,050 hp EPA-est. range up to 516 mi From $87,400 LUCIDMOTORS.COM Experience the best . *EPA est. range ratings when equipped with 19” wheels: 516 Grand Touring/425 Touring/410 Pure (when equipped with AWD). Actual results may vary. Excludes tax, title, license, options and destination fees. Governmental incentives may also be available. Please consult your tax or financial advisor regarding eligibility. Vehicles shown here with optional equipment. Max HP for Pure when equipped with optional AWD. 1,050 max horsepower is only achievable with Grand Touring Performance trim. Game-changing range, astonishing power, and dynamic handling — designed in California and assembled in Arizona. Experience the Lucid Air.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASING A PRODUCT WILL NOT IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. PROMOTION IS OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 U.S. AND D.C. WHO ARE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AS OF DATE OF ENTRY. PROMOTION IS GOVERNED EXCLUSIVELY BY THE LAWS OF THE U.S. Promotion begins at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) on 1/1/2022 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 12/31/2022. To enter, and for full terms and conditions and prize details, scan the QR code or visit www.Heineken.com/us/en/promos/UltimateAmsterdamExperience and follow the on-screen entry instructions. Normal time rates, if any, charged by Internet service providers will apply. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. ET on 12/31/2022.

©2021 HEINEKEN®
Lager Beer. Brewed in Holland. Imported by HEINEKEN
White Plains, NY.
Sponsor: HEINEKEN USA Inc., White Plains, NY.
Original
USA,

CODE: USPA25 25% OFF

USPAFRAGRANCE.COM INTRODUCING

String the

Anyone who has watched a polo match knows that it is the mix of speed, action, and athleticism that makes the game so thrilling. The relationship between the player and their pony is one built on a combination of innate talent, character, and years of careful training.

POLO PONY STATS

HEIGHT: 15 to 16 hands (60–64 inches from the ground to the withers)

WEIGHT: 1,000–1,100 lbs

AGE: 4–18 years old

BREED: thoroughbreds, thoroughbred–quarter horse crosses, Argentine ponies

POLO STRING: 4-10 ponies, depending on the level of play

PERFORMANCE: galloping up to 3 miles in a chukker and reaching speeds of 30 mph

Most players will concede that their string of polo ponies makes up about 75% of the skill on the field. The qualities of a champion polo pony take a keen eye to recognize in a young (or “green”) horse. The first component that polo pro and trainer Horacio Onetto looks for is the horse’s physicality: “I look for how they move, their form. You can tell a lot about how talented they are. I look for soundness and good conformation for polo.”

Good conformation in a horse can include observing its balance, its structural soundness (alignment, its legs), tracking (how it moves), its muscling (especially a well-muscled hindquarter), and its breed. A champion polo pony needs to have agility, maneuverability, speed, and stamina. Thoroughbred horses are the most popular breed for polo for their stamina, and thoroughbred-quarter horse mixes are chosen for their agility.

The next quality to look for in a polo pony is temperament: they need to have a heart for the game. The pony should have the confidence and drive to take a player into an aggressive play, but also remain obedient and respond quickly to the commands of the player. In addition to warrior traits, the polo pony needs to be able to stay calm in the midst of all the action on the field. A polo pony also needs to have a mind for the game. Because the training process evolves over 2 years, the horse must be able to retain the lessons they have learned while adding new skills. However, a horse can have all of the intelligence and physical skill in the world, but if it cannot handle the pace and pressure of the game, it will not succeed on the field.

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR PONY

Many professional polo players also breed, broker, and train polo ponies. Who better to develop a fine string than the men and women who truly know and appreciate these equine athletes?

38

JORIE BUTLER KENT, DAUGHTER OF OAK BROOK FOUNDER PAUL BUTLER, IS A RENOWNED HORSEWOMAN WHO MANAGED THE OAK BROOK POLO CLUB FROM 1967 TO 1979. SHE WAS ONE OF THE FIRST WOMEN REGISTERED AS A POLO PLAYER WITH THE USPA IN 1968. AMONG HER OTHER CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE SPORT, JORIE COACHED THE INTERNATIONAL ROLEX/ABERCROMBIE & KENT POLO TEAM AND RAN A HORSEBREEDING OPERATION OUT OF HER RANCH IN MONTANA.

39
Jorie Butler Kent presents the Best Playing Pony award at Oak Brook, c. 1960s.
40

Oak Brook polo pro Horacio Onetto grew up in Argentina, where he learned from his father, who was a polo player, breeder, and trainer. Onetto says that the average pony takes between one and three years to train, though every now and again, you find a special one: “It depends on the talent of the horse and how natural and patient the horse is. I train them, then I back off. I turn them out and let them be a horse, then I grab them and train them again. If you keep pushing and pushing, you may push too hard and they can burn out. You have to take your time.”

A trainer can get a young, green horse ready for the rigors of the field, but when it comes to buying a pony, the most important element is matching the skill and temperament of the pony with that of the trainer. Onetto explains: “I like a patient horse. I am aggressive enough myself that I can make them aggressive. I would rather have a more passive horse. I train both kinds, because you never know what you’re going to get, but with the way I play, the more chill they are, the better.”

In addition to breeding ponies from a lineage of polo champions, there have been great strides in reproductive technologies for polo horses, from embryo transfers to surrogate mares to cloning! Many thoroughbreds also come to polo from the racetrack where their speed, endurance, and competitiveness can be put to good use.

Pamela Flanagan, a USPA Governor-at-Large, is a tireless advocate for rescuing, rehabilitating, and repurposing horses for the polo field. Her first rescue, Stella in 2016, has become a valuable part of her string, making her high-goal debut at the 2018 Susan G. Komen U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship. Since then, Pamela has rescued and repurposed 6

more ponies, with plans to continue her advocacy. “My focus is to find ways to regulate and minimize reckless backyard breeding, promote repurposing discarded horses, and do away with the stigma of adopted or rescued horses.”

MATCHMAKING

Nina Gowl is a polo manager for James Drury, patron of the Oak Brook polo team. She takes care of Drury’s string of eight horses year-round, conditioning them for the season, coordinating polo team practices, and taking care of the logistics of each polo season. Gowl also finds horses for Jim to purchase with the input of pros that she trusts.

“People at different levels seek different qualities that help them excel on the field. The pros can be very differently mounted than the amateurs, meaning the horses may be more complex to ride and play. In Jim’s case the type of horse that helps him excel on the field is one that is very steady, honest, and safe. He wants them to be the same every time he’s on them. Like people, horses have off days. I work very hard with his pros to try to make sure the horses are on their ‘A’ game whenever Jim puts his foot in the stirrup.”

When players are starting out, they often want the best horse that money can buy; however, the price of the horse isn’t necessarily what makes a pony the best fit for the player. Onetto reiterates that matching the skill and temperament of the player and pony is the most important thing: “Players have different needs for their horses. I can ride any horse, but a player that is learning to ride will need a horse that matches their skill level. It is very difficult to match a player and a horse. It’s like fitting a glove.”

41

Do more of what you love to do — and feel your best doing it.

Restore Hyper Wellness is Oakbrook’s premier wellness center Whether you’re looking for athletic recovery, relief from chronic pain or fatigue, a hangover cure, a spa experience or just overall wellbeing, Restore has something for you.

Replenish your body and boost your immune system with hydration, antioxidants and other micronutrients utilizing IV Drip Therapy, IntraMusclar Shots, and NAD+ Therapy administered by Restore’s registered nurses Recover like the pros with Infrared Sauna, Cryotherapy, and Compression.

SCAN HERE TO TEXT US

AND GET 10% OFF YOUR FIRST SERVICE:

Restore offers...

Recover, Renew, Cryotherapy RedLight Therapy Infrared Sauna Compression

mhbOT BioMarkers IVDrip Therapy

IM Shots

NAD+ HydraFacial Oxygen Facials

Cryoskin

17W701 E Roosevelt Rd, Oakbrook Terrace | (630) 359-5420 | www restore com
REVEL RESPONSIBLY | 40% Alc. Vol. | HECHO EN MEXICO 43

MICHAEL BUTLER A Passion for Polo

A young Michael Butler playing polo
46

MMichael Butler was born in 1926, the son of Paul Butler and grandson of Frank Osgood Butler, the founders of the American polo empire Oak Brook Polo. Michael grew up on Oak Brook Farm, the family’s property north of Hinsdale, Illinois. In those years it was the largest piece of privately owned land in the county, occupying 5,000 acres with sixteen separate farms, the popular Natoma Dairy, and several polo fields.

Frank Osgood owned Butler Paper, as well as large cattle and horse ranches in the Dakotas and Montana, where he indulged his passion for breeding fine livestock, breeding beef cattle, and remounts for the United States Cavalry. Frank initially began playing polo with his cowboys on a polo field he built in the center of his racetrack in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and it was there that Paul was introduced to the sport which would dominate the family’s lives for seven decades. The lives of Michael's grandfather, his father, Michael’s sister Jorie and ultimately their respective children Adam and Reute who were both accomplished players for many years were all greatly influenced by the world of polo. " All the talk around the dinner table centered on polo and ponies and everyone, including me, assumed that I would follow in their footsteps," Michael once said. That changed when Michael was seven years old. His pony bolted into the barn through a partially closed door that irreparably shattered his right arm. Blood poisoning from rusty nails began coursing through his veins and the local hospital wanted to amputate.

Michael' s dad intervened, and the doctors created a system of small macaroni-shaped objects in order to drain the poison. After several months of enforced stillness, the arm healed in a permanently bent position with limited movement from the shoulder only. This was a handicap that would initially prevent him playing polo. Instead, Michael took up show jumping and fox hunting, and in 1947, with sister Jorie’s support, designed an innovative hunter-jumper course at Oak Brook for the Olympic Hunter Trials that would later be adopted for the Olympic Games.

Michael Butler and Adam Butler photo sitting in their Oak Brook team jerseys Michael Butler receiving trophy from HRH Queen Elizabeth
47
Cecil Smith, Michael Butler and son Adam Butler

Ten years later, while walking through the stable in the polo wing of their barn, Paul turned to his son and said, "[Maharaj] Prem Singh is not coming this summer, so why don't you take his ponies and play? Cecil and Jackie can help you figure it out." Texan Cecil Smith, polo’s most legendary player and Paul’s pro, was the highest rated player in the country at 10 goals, a ranking he held for 25 years, a record that is still unmatched. He taught Michael how to compensate for his inability to swing a mallet "the normal way." He and Jackie Murphy, who also played for Paul, helped him find his stroke to become a one-goal player. Michael explained, "They wanted me to increase my handicap from one to two, but I felt more valuable at one because most tournaments are based on two to forty-goal handicaps. A lot of players want a higher handicap for their egos, but at one goal, we could enter more tournaments- and I just wanted to play more.

Once Michael began playing, he says, "It became what I wanted most in the world. Nothing else in my life would ever be as exciting, challenging, or fulfilling as polo. It's a very dangerous sport, and I've seen three people killed on the field. I have also seen dozens, maybe hundreds, of accidents and had quite a few myself. But the game is so demanding and exciting that it overcomes all of that. Also, it' s a kind of theater because you are playing and performing in front of an audience, and that appealed to the ' producer' aspect of my life."

Being a player in the world of polo opens doors to extraordinary people all over the world, and polo people enjoy hanging out together. The "common ground" of polo immediately allows people to feel comfortable about certain aspects of a person. These relationships led to Cecil Smith being named as godfather to Michael’s son Adam. Players are highly skilled athletes who take the sport seriously and regardless of political or religious preferences, may usually be relied upon as ethical when it comes

to the game. Michael thought cheating does not exist in polo, and he believed this carried over into all aspects of a polo player's life. Michael reminisces, "You can go to a strange city and walk into a polo club and be welcomed instantly. It's also the sport of kings, generals, industrialists, great sportsmen - and cowboys like Cecil Smith, who came from nothing and rose to great prominence. It is truly a sport that levels the playing field."

Polo was the most dominant aspect of Michael's life, and the schedule always took the highest priority. Even when he began producing Hair, polo dominated his time. "I think most of the Hair people understood that from day one during production in California and Chicago, I was able to blend the two quite often by bringing Hair people to matches. I even had an authentic teepee erected on the field at the Santa Barbara Polo Club for our private use." This typifies the way Michael blended his two worlds of polo and theater despite their inherent differences.

He notes, "Polo was a gentleman's game, while Broadway is not. The game demands total discipline and control - it' s not a question of greed or going after money, while Broadway is all about dollars-although I admit to a certain amount of greed for the sterling silver trophies that are commonly referred to as polo 'silver' and I have a lot."

"There are people who play with fewer, but I usually had about thirty-six horses that served the whole team. In those days, the Butlers bred horses on our ranches in Montana and purchased them in Argentina at about $1,000 to $15,000 dollars a head. Now that number is in six figures-and that is just the cost of buying the horse; then it has to be housed, fed, trained, and kept healthy. Today that cost alone can run into the millions."

"The social aspects of the polo world were always important. The spectators or ' audience' consisted of prominent individuals in that part of the world,

48

so players mingled with important, influential people. A respectable number of my business dealings stemmed from the high-end networking in that world. Almost all the original financing for Hair came from friends in the polo world, and many made a handsome profit.

"I loved playing polo in England where the Royal Family all play and/or attend matches, and have always regretted selling Warfield Hall, my English estate, because it was a ten-minute drive to Windsor Castle and the Guard's Polo Club. There is something old world and gentlemanly, an elegance perhaps, about the way players conduct themselves both on and off the field in England. Perhaps because of the Royal Family' s involvement and presence, but also going back to the way the British conduct themselves, their innate civility, sportsmanship, and sense of humor."

The Oak Brook Polo Club hosted the U.S. Open Polo Championship, the most prominent polo tournament in the U.S. twenty-two times from 1954 to 1978. Paul Butler's team won six of those championships. Michael's team won three Butler Handicaps. In 1971, his team, consisting of Ronnie

"Little Cowboy" Tongg, Heath Manning, Billy Linfoot, and himself, flew to England to win the Coronation Cup, an event he had reinstated. It became the biggest polo event in England. In 1973, Michael's team consisting of Fred and Mike Dailey and Stuart Mackenzie, won the coveted Gold Cup in Ireland's version of the Open, The Freebooter's Tournament. In 1986 he inaugurated the International Cup at Oak Brook by hosting the British team captained by H.R.H., The Prince of Wales, Prince Charles. Michael passed away on November 7, 2022 in California. He was a frequent spectator at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and enjoyed a beautiful day at the club in late August 2022 with his son. He was often accompanied by his fellow polo enthusiasts Dr. Madison Richardson and Ms. Stefanie Powers. His last visit to the Oak Brook Polo Club was in 2019 for the Friends of Conservation and the international match with Mexico. Michael was disappointed that his health kept him away from attending the 100th Anniversary of the club, but he was most certainly there in spirit and requested a play by play from Adam upon his return from the centennial celebration.

Jorie Butler Kent, Michael Butler and HRH Prince Charles in 1986 at Oak Brook Polo Club
49
1965 Central Circuit.
50
51

Mariani Landscape is thrilled to partner with Oak Brook Polo Club as an Official Sponsor for the 2023 season. Two organizations that actually have a very similar mission —bringing friends and family together to make memories and enjoy time outdoors. Here’s to a great season on the pitch.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS | CRAFTSMEN | CARETAKERS www.marianilandscape.com

No divot stomping required.

Join us at the award-winning Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club, a newly renovated venue with three elegant spaces and large patio. Its floor-toceiling windows reveal acres of breathtaking pastures and woodlands. A private, intimate experience in a convenient location in the Chicago suburbs. A BREATHTAKING VENUE FOR YOUR NEXT CELEBRATION
IGPhotoVideo Kristen Cloyd Photography TWA Photographic Artists
oakbrookbathandtennisevents.com | (630) 368-6442 | 800 Oak Brook Rd, Oak Brook, IL 60523
Kristen Cloyd Photography TWA Photographic Artists
Our innovative therapy techniques improve flexibility, mobility, and overall muscular health. Our expert therapists offer personalized treatment plans to address your specific needs, helping you achieve peak performance and live pain-free. Contact Us info@delostherapy.com • Oak Brook • Winnetka • Delos Strength - Chicago • Lincoln Park • River North

8 SEATS, INFINITE ADVENTURES

An instantly recognizable silhouette reimagined for the future, the Defender 130 makes the most of every journey. With eight full-size seats and expansive cargo capacity, there’s more space for shared adventure.

Land Rover Hinsdale

336 E Ogden Ave., Hinsdale, IL 60521

630-325-9955

landroverhinsdale.com

Vehicle shown: 2023 Defender 130.

OAK BROOK POLO CLUB

100year timeline

First U.S. Open Polo Championships to be held at

Oak Brook Polo Club was chartered on October 3rd, 1924

Founded the Oak Brook Polo Cub

USPA Monty Waterbury Champions

U.S. Open Polo Championships played at Oak Brook with the exception of 1963, 1966 and 1968

Creation of the first Butler Handicap, Paul created this tournament so that teams, which had been knocked out of the U.S. Open competition, would have something else for which to compete

Became the largest polo plant in the world with 14 fields and stabling for 400 horses and billed the “Polo Capital of the United States” or “Polo Town”

1st U.S. Open Polo Champions (Team: A. Donald Beveridge, Wayne Brown, Cecil Smith, Harold L. “Chico” Barry) 8; Royal Palm 5 at Oak Brook

1954
1954
1956
1958
1958 1960
1921
1922
1924
1951
1954
1954-1978 1959
First polo field planted bringing polo to Oak Brook Oak Brook 1 st Butler Handicap Champions
USPA moved its headquarters to Oak Brook, IL until 1986
Village of Oak Brook Incorporated
2 nd Butler Handicap Champions
58

2nd U.S. Open Polo Champions (Concar Oak Brook Team: Leslie L. Linfoot, Charles W. Smith, Julio Muller, Jack Murphy) 10; Solo Cup Crescents 9 at Oak Brook

1964

1964

3rd U.S. Open Polo Champions Oak Brook-Santa Barbara (Ronald Tongg, Charles W. Smith, William R. Linfoot, Jack Murphy) 11; Bunntyco 5 at Oak Brook

1965

1967-1979

4th U.S. Open Polo Champions

Bunntyco-Oak Brook (Delmer

W. Carroll, W. Ray Harrington Jr., Jack Murphy, Richard Bunn) 8; Milwaukee 2 at Oak Brook

Michael Butler representing the Oak Brook Polo Club would help international polo competition return to England by revitalizing the Coronation Cup

5th

Champions Oak Brook (Hugo Dalmar Jr., Charles W. Smith, Allan D. Scherer, Robert D. Beveridge) 8; Tulsa Greenhill 7 at Oak Brook

1967
1968
1963
1969
1970
1965 1970
1971
1971
1st USPA Gold Cup Champions 5th USPA Gold Cup Champions Lost U.S. Open Polo Championship 4th USPA Gold Cup 2nd USPA Gold Cup Champions 6th USPA Gold Cup Champions 3rd USPA Gold Cup Champions U.S. Open Polo
59
Jorie Butler Kent managed the Oak Brook Polo Club

Abercrombie & Kent (Geoffrey Kent, David Wigdahl, Antonio Herrera, Stuart Mackenzie) 7; Tulsa 6

USPA registered JBK and Sue Sally Hale of Sleepy Hollow Polo Club, Carmel Valley California and assigned them handicaps JBK handicapped at 0 / Sue Sally handicapped at 1

6th

Champions Oak Brook (Hugo Dalmar Jr., William G. Atkinson, Charles W. Smith, Robert D. Beveridge) 9; Willow Bend 4 at Oak Brook

Guillermo Gracida won his first of 16 U.S. Open Polo Championship titles at Oak Brook

1976 1980-89

1976

1978 1972 1978 1972 1979 1972 1979 1973
1974-90 1973
1st U.S. Open Polo Champions with Jorie Butler Kent’s Abercrombie & Kent Team at Oak Brook 3rd Butler Handicap Champions Butler Handicap Champions with Michael Butler PGA Tour’s Western Open at Butler National Golf Club U.S. Open Polo 1st USPA Gold Cup Champions with Jorie Butler Kent’s Abercrombie & Kent Team Founded Butler National Golf Club Last year the U.S. Open Polo Championships to be played at Oak Brook 4th Butler Handicap Champions Michael Butler managed the Oak Brook Polo Club
60
First over $150k Gould World Cup Championships held at Oak Brook

June 25th – the day after his 89th birthday, Paul Butler was struck and killed by a car as he crossed a street in front of his house in Oak Brook, Illinois Butler Handicap Champions with Michael Butler

1 st Butler Handicap Champions with Jorie Butler Kent’s Abercrombie & Kent Team

Butler Handicap Champions with Michael Butler

1986

2nd U.S. Open Polo Champions with Jorie Butler Kent’s Abercrombie & Kent Team Rolex A & K (Geoffrey Kent, Joel R. Baker, Antonio Herrera, Stuart Mackenzie) 10; Retama 9 at Retama

2 nd Butler Handicap Champions with Jorie Butler Kent’s Abercrombie & Kent Team

HRH Prince of Wales, Prince Charles would visit Oak Brook to play in exhibition polo match between England and Oak Brook

James Drury, in partnership with the Village of Oak Brook, agreed to take over polo operations and put polo back in the hands of the greater Chicagoland polo community

Oak Brook Polo Club celebrates 100th Anniversary and return to the Cecil Smith Field

Oak Brook Polo Club was awarded and hosted the National Youth Tournament Series Championships

1987
1981
1982 1995 1983 2016 1984 2021 1986 2022
3 rd Butler Handicap Champions with Jorie Butler Kent’s Abercrombie & Kent Team
61
Hinsdale / 30 South Lincoln Street Chicago / 548 West Webster Avenue where you live... Jaime Adams 630.650.2222
Experience the exhilaration of the DBX707 at Napleton’s Aston Martin of Chicago. Conveniently located in Downers Grove & Gold Coast. Napleton’s Aston Martin Chicago 1038 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60610 312.888.2967 Napleton’s Aston Martin Downers Grove 217 Ogden Avenue Downers Grove, IL 60515 630.960.2000

OAK BROOK POLO ACADEMY

The Oak Brook Polo Academy is Chicagoland’s premier school dedicated to the education, instruction, and advancement of new and seasoned players to the sport of polo. Located 30 miles outside Downtown Chicago, the Academy offers group and private lessons to all ages and ability levels.

In polo, people and their equine partners come together to play an exhilarating game, showcasing the incredible athleticism and coordination necessary of both horse and rider. If you have ever watched polo, you may find the idea of learning to play daunting, but polo can be enjoyed by men and women of any age.

• No previous riding experience necessary

• Horses and basic polo gear will be provided

• Learn about the horses, polo techniques, the game, and the lifestyle of polo

• Taught by United States Polo Association (USPA) Certified Instructors and professional players

TURNER WHEATON

I was introduced to polo in my early years growing up in the Detroit Polo Club, where I learned to play and take care of horses through the summers. My parents, Emmalyn and Paul, have a combined 60+ years’ experience in the sport, managing the club, and even running a polo school of their own! I’ve been fortunate enough to play in many different areas of the country, including Texas, Wyoming, Florida, South Carolina—the list goes on! I’m very excited to be involved with the Oak Brook Polo Academy this summer. We have a great group of horses coming with us and personable staff that will make playing polo more enjoyable, and easier, than ever!

JENNA DAVIS

Horses have always been my passion. I have ridden many disciplines—everything from hunter/ jumper to Western pleasure—but nothing compares to the sport of polo. I was hooked as soon as I hit my first ball! I started playing in Rhode Island, and I have been lucky enough to travel the East Coast, playing and working with many unique individuals. Teaching polo has been my favorite way to express my love for the sport and share the knowledge that I have gained throughout the years. I am very excited to join the Oak Brook Polo Academy this summer, and I can’t wait to see you on the field!

OAKBROOKPOLOACADEMY.COM FOR ACADEMY INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Jenna Davis | P: 401.474.9873 | E: jenna@oakbrookpoloacademy.com

get ready for game day with

PERFORMANCE WHITES 2.0 & TECHNICAL GEAR BAG

MEN WOMEN

Oak Brook Polo Club's Centennial Gala

68

Power

69
70
71

Friends & Family

72

Merrill is proud to support the Oak Brook Polo Club.

Merrill is proud to support the Oak Brook Polo Club.

The Maurer Group

Karl Maurer, CIMA®, CPFA®

Senior Vice President

Wealth Management Advisor

Portfolio Manager

312.499.4609

karl_maurer@ml.com

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

Natalie Cozzi

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

110 North Wacker Drive

17th Floor Chicago, IL 60606

110 North Wacker Drive

17th Floor Chicago, IL 60606

fa.ml.com/maurergroup

fa.ml.com/maurergroup

Natalie Cozzi Financial Advisor 312.597.4987

natalie.cozzi@ml.com

ethan.jackson@ml.com

ethan.jackson@ml.com

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation.

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp.

Investment products: Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value

Investments & Wealth Institute® (the Institute) is the owner of the certification marks “CIMA,” and “Certified Investment Management Analyst.” Use of CIMA, and/or Certified Investment Management Analyst signifies that the user has successfully completed the Institute’s initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for investment management professionals. A Portfolio Manager can help clients pursue their objectives by managing on a discretionary basis his own Personalized or Defined Strategies, which may incorporate individual stocks and bonds, Merrill model portfolios, and third-party investment strategies.

© 2023 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. Investments & Wealth Institute® (the Institute) is the owner of the certification marks “CIMA,” and “Certified Investment Management Analyst.” Use of CIMA, and/or Certified Investment Management Analyst signifies that the user has successfully completed the Institute’s initial and ongoing credentialing requirements for investment management professionals. Portfolio Manager can help clients pursue their objectives by managing on a discretionary basis his own Personalized or Defined Strategies, which may incorporate individual stocks and bonds, Merrill model portfolios, and third-party investment strategies.

The Maurer Group Karl Maurer, CIMA®, CPFA® Senior Vice President Wealth Management Advisor Portfolio Manager 312.499.4609 karl_maurer@ml.com
Ethan Jackson Client Associate 312.499.4655
Financial
Advisor 312.597.4987 natalie.cozzi@ml.com Ethan Jackson Client Associate 312.499.4655
MAP5272720 | AD-04-23-0599 | 470944PM-0123 | 04/2023
OAKBROOKPOLOCLUB.COM
MICHAEL BUTLER’S 90 TH BIRTHDAY BACK: LAURENCE JURDEM, JORIE WATERMAN, REUTE BUTLER, ADAM BUTLER FRONT: JORIE BUTLER KENT, MICHAEL BUTLER, WENDY DUNAWAY, LIAM BUTLER AND MICHELLE BUTLER PHOTOGRAPHER: DANA PATRICK

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.