Whether you keep a pony for weekend recreation or raise elite breeding stallions, it makes good business sense to choose an insurance agent who understands your speci c coverage needs.
Whether you keep a pony for weekend recreation or raise elite breeding stallions, it makes good business sense to choose an insurance agent who understands your speci c coverage needs.
Whether you keep a pony for weekend recreation or raise elite breeding stallions, it makes good business sense to choose an insurance agent who understands your speci c coverage needs.
Whether you keep a pony for weekend recreation or raise elite breeding stallions, it makes good business sense to choose an insurance agent who understands your speci c coverage needs.
Whether you keep a pony for weekend recreation or raise elite breeding stallions, it makes good business sense to choose an insurance agent who understands your speci c coverage needs.
PROPERTY COVERAGE: Home | Barns | Hay and Grain |Machinery |Farm Supplies | Tack
PROPERTY COVERAGE: Home | Barns | Hay and Grain |Machinery |Farm Supplies | Tack
PROPERTY COVERAGE: Home | Barns | Hay and Grain |Machinery |Farm Supplies | Tack
PROPERTY COVERAGE: Home | Barns | Hay and Grain |Machinery |Farm Supplies | Tack
PROPERTY COVERAGE: Home | Barns | Hay and Grain |Machinery |Farm Supplies | Tack
LIABILITY COVERAGE: Care, Custody and Control | Clinics |Riding Instruction | Boarding Shows | Hay and Sleigh Rides
SHANNON GALVIN
LIABILITY COVERAGE: Care, Custody and Control | Clinics |Riding Instruction | Boarding Shows | Hay and Sleigh Rides
SHANNON GALVIN
LIABILITY COVERAGE: Care, Custody and Control | Clinics |Riding Instruction | Boarding Shows | Hay and Sleigh Rides
LIABILITY COVERAGE: Care, Custody and Control | Clinics |Riding Instruction | Boarding Shows | Hay and Sleigh Rides
LIABILITY COVERAGE: Care, Custody and Control | Clinics |Riding Instruction | Boarding Shows | Hay and Sleigh Rides
SHANNON GALVIN
SHANNON GALVIN
SHANNON GALVIN
G E N T
P O B O X 42 0 C Y PR E SS , T X 7741 0 S.GALVIN@AMERICAN-NATIONAL.COM
713.857.5554
http://an.insure/shannongalvin
Welcome to the Houston Polo Club
Founded in 1928, the Houston Polo Club has continued to grow and is now the largest polo club in the United States.
The Club is situated on 26 beautifully landscaped and wooded acres in Memorial Park, in the heart of Houston.
The Houston Polo Club is a not-for-profit organization. All membership and guest fees are directed toward serving our HPC family and supporting HPC riding programs, not only in Houston but throughout the United States. Every year, HPC looks for new ways to serve and build the sport of polo. HPC’s Polo School and Step Up programs develop new players, no matter their age, and assist them in joining our polo community. HPC takes a special interest
in developing the next generation of polo competitors through our Junior Polo, Interscholastic, and Team USPA programs.
Over our Spring and Fall seasons, HPC hosts six league levels ranging from beginner to 12 Goal. In addition to league play, we host national-level USPA tournaments, including the Regional Classic Southwestern, the U.S. Open Women’s Championship, and the National Youth Tournament Series. In addition to polo, HPC offers full equestrian facilities, including on-site boarding, as well as English and Hunter Jumper riding lessons for children and adults. Our facility provides the perfect environment for horse lovers to develop their riding skills.
us for Sunday Polo!
Spring Season: April 6–June 8 Fall Season: September 14–November 16
Reserve your seats online: houstonpoloclub.com/buy-tickets
Red Oak Lawn/ General Admission Tickets:
Sit under covered seating in the cantina/tented area, or, for those who want partial sun, you can enjoy seating under one of our gorgeous umbrella tables.Walk-up concession and premium bar service by The Lymbar.
Box by the Day:
Group seating for 2–20 guests, perfect for entertaining clients, family, or friends while watching the world’s most exhilarating sport. All boxes are serviced by professional waitstaff.
ANNUAL BOX MEMBERSHIPS: Seating for 6 to current-year spring and fall Sunday matches, a personalized box sign, invites to HPC social events, and HPC private league matches. All boxes are serviced by professional waitstaff, and call-ahead ordering is available. Food and drinks are not included. Box memberships are based on availability.
PRIVATE GROUP EVENTS: HPC has the perfect fieldside event space for corporate entertaining, private parties, and fundraising. With its central Houston location and lush surroundings, the Houston Polo Club is a unique and ideal spot for your private or corporate event.
For booking/information on any of our individual or group ticket options, email events@thehoustonpoloclub.com
Executive Business Director, Sponsorships, Event/Box Sales, Marketing
Monique Brooks
Marketing, Ad Designer, Photographer
KC Krueger
Polo Manager
Mark Prinsloo
Head Polo Instructor
Shoni Howell Controller
Paige Luplow
Head Riding Instructor
Barlee Flanders
Riding Instructor
Grounds Manager
Paulin Rodriguez Jr.
Kaylee Wroe Photographer
Becky Grohman
Lead Ambassador
James Grohman
Head of Security, Harris County Constable PCT. 4
Marty Salinas Announcer
1 POLO’S ROOTS
Originally referred to as Choughan, meaning “mallet,” polo was played as far back as 2,500 years ago in the ancient Persian Empire, where it was used as a training game for military cavalry units. The Sport of Kings spread and evolved from old empires to new continents primarily by way of colonization and military rule, traveling to India in the 15th century, where it was the national sport for two centuries.
In the second half of the 19th century, army officers, tea planters, and civil officials in British India took to polo and brought it back to England. In 1859, Lt. Joseph Sherer played his first game and helped to establish the oldest active club in the world: Calcutta Polo Club. Polo historian
J.N.P. Watson refers to Sherer as “the father of Western Polo.” The first polo match in the United States took place at Dickel’s Riding Academy in New York City. In 1876, the first formal American polo club was established:Westchester Polo Club in New York.
2
UNITED STATES POLO ASSOCIATION
The United States Polo Association (USPA) is the governing body of polo in North America. Originally founded in 1890, the USPA is responsible for sanctioning polo clubs and tournaments; managing and publishing rules and handicap ratings; and organizing, promoting, and supporting polo across North America.
3 ON THE FIELD
Polo fields measure 300 x 160 yards—slightly larger than nine football fields! Each team of four players is made up of a patron (who sponsors the team and hires polo pros), 1–3 polo pros, and players. There are also two mounted umpires on the field and a referee (called the Third Man) on the sidelines in case a third set of eyes is required to make a call.
4 GOALS, SCORES, AND HANDICAPS
There are many uses for the term “goal” in polo. On the field, a goal is scored each time a ball fully crosses between the goal posts at any height. Every time a goal is scored, the teams switch directions to equalize playing conditions.
The second common use for the term “goal” refers to a player’s handicap or goal rating. Players are rated between -2 (or C) and 10, with a 10-goal player being the very best in the world. Club-based rating committees decide the handicap of each player based on playing ability, horsemanship, team play, horses, and knowledge of the game.
Players’ goal ratings are used to build equal teams. The handicap of a team is the sum total rating of all of its players, and the score of a match is adjusted according to discrepancies in the two teams’ handicaps. For example, if you are attending a 4-Goal match, teams are composed of players whose sum goal rating equals four.
5 SAFETY FIRST!
Polo is a high-intensity, high-speed sport. With ponies pounding down the field, it quickly becomes clear why most rules are in place to protect the ponies and players. When a foul is called by one of the two umpires on the field, the severity of the infraction and the resulting penalty is judged on a scale of 1 to 9, based on how dangerous the infraction was to the horse or player.
6 PLAYER POSITIONS
On the field, player positions are represented by the numbers on their polo jerseys—from one to four. Player 1 plays an offensive role on the field and is responsible for neutralizing the opposing team’s Player 4— their primary defense. Player 2 is the mover and the shaker, a transition player who backs up Player 1 and aggressively seeks to move the ball upfield. Player 3 is the quarterback, who focuses on game strategy, field advantage, and moving the ball. This player is often the highest-rated player on the team. Finally, Player 4 is primarily responsible for guarding the goal and preventing the opposing team from scoring.
7 PONIES
Polo ponies are thoroughbreds or thoroughbred–quarter horse crosses selected for their agility, speed, endurance, and intelligence.
Years is the length of a healthy polo pony’s career 15 pounds is the average weight of a polo pony 1,000 inches (15-16 hands) is the average height of a polo pony from the ground to the withers 60–64 PONIES BY THE NUMBERS is the number of ponies played by each player in a high-goal game 6–10 YEARS to raise, break, and train a polo pony 6–7
8 STICK AND BALL
Though it may look like a high-end croquet set, the polo mallet and ball are specialized for the high-speed nature of the sport. The mallet is a bamboo shaft with a hardwood head, ranging in length from 49 to 54 inches, depending on the size of the horse. For safety reasons, all players hold the mallet in their right hand and use the side of the mallet head to hit the polo ball.The outdoor polo ball was at one time made of willow or bamboo but is now made of solid, hard plastic measuring 3 to 3½ inches in diameter.
9 SPECTATOR PARTICIPATION
While the high-speed action remains on the field, there is a lot of fun to be had on the sidelines! Polo is a very social sport, with many ways for non-athletes to be involved. Join us on the sidelines to watch polo every Sunday. Heighten your experience by buying a corporate box to entertain clients and reward employees. Join the Divot Stomp: a long-held polo tradition that takes place during halftime. Spectators are invited onto the field to replace pieces of turf dug up by the ponies during play. A great complement to the Divot Stomp is a glass of Champagne!
10 GET IN THE GAME
When you get tired of sitting on the sidelines, it’s time to check out Houston Polo Club’s Polo School. Polo players come from all backgrounds—some bring riding experience; others bring a great golf swing. Regardless, the adrenaline of combining horsemanship with hand-eye coordination hooks hundreds of players each year. Lessons can be a rigorous start to your polo career or a casual weekend pastime for family and friends. No matter your level, interest, or ability, no one ever regrets their first polo lesson, and rarely do they show up for just one! See page 40 for the 2025 Polo School schedule.
Located in the heart of Houston, the C. Baldwin redefines the idea of modern indulgence in a luxe hotel experience. Through a fusion of sensuous materials, sophisticated touches, impressive guest rooms, and incomparable culinary offerings, the C. Baldwin holds secrets of the past and promises of the future.
Horsing Around with
Polo Trivia
Each Sunday, the fans are as much a part of the game as the players on the field.They bring excitement, cheers, and passion for the game.The sidelines at Houston Polo Club are always abuzz with activities, booths, food, and friends. A fan favorite every Sunday is the trivia prize giveaway. Spectators can submit their polo-related questions, and if you stump our long-time announcer, Marty Salinas, you can win yourself a sponsor gift bag.We love giving away prizes, so here is the deep knowledge you need to know to trick Marty!
Off the Beaten Track
Polo has a deep history and traditions, but if you travel around the world, you will find some extremely fun variations of the traditional game. In Nepal or Thailand, you can trade in your pony for an elephant! The rules are basically the same, with concessions made for the length of the mallets and the field (elephants can’t gallop quite as far as ponies!). Inspired by elephant polo, the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club debuted camel polo for a unique Arabian twist on the game! The only problem: camels are notoriously stubborn and require meticulous training, so they don’t just walk off, sit down, or decide to just stand there. In addition to unique mounts, climate can also offer new variations on the game: you can try your hand at snow polo in St. Moritz, Switzerland, or head to Miami Beach, Florida, for some sunny beach polo.
When a Goal Is a Handicap
The United States Polo Association created the handicap system in 1890 so teams in tournament play could be evenly matched. Each player’s handicap (also called a “goal rating”) is reviewed twice a year by their home club based on their skills, horsemanship, team play, knowledge of the game, strategic ability, and sportsmanship. In the U.S., the handicap scale starts at C (or -2) for novice players and goes up to 10 goals. Professional players generally have a rating of 3 or more. 10-goal players are very rare (there are fewer than two dozen in the world).
With the exploding popularity of women’s polo in the past decade, legendary polo player Sunny Hale proposed an additional rating scale for women-only tournament play. A player can have one or more of these four rating types: Outdoor (mixed league), Arena (mixed league), Women’s Outdoor, and Women’s Arena.
Take it Inside
Imagine being addicted to this incredible sport and only being able to play two seasons a year. The answer? Arena polo! Arena polo is played in an indoor arena (or outdoors in a covered all-weather space). The dirt field is smaller—300 by 150 feet—and enclosed by boards that are at least 4 feet high. Because the field is smaller, each team is made up of only three players, as opposed outdoor play, which is made up four players.Your equipment is the same, except the ball is akin to a small soccer ball. Strategy shifts due to the bouncy nature
of the ball, the uneven dirt surface, and the use of the arena walls to deflect the ball. Because you can play year-round, it is a great way to grow your stick-and-ball and riding skills.
Have a Ball
Today’s polo balls have set specifications. For outdoor play, the diameter ranges from 3 to 3.5 inches, and they weigh between 4.25 and 4.75 ounces. For arena play, the balls are inflated leather balls with a diameter of 4.5 inches, a circumference of between 12.5 and 15 inches, and a weight of 170–183 grams. However, the polo ball has evolved. At various times in the sport’s history, polo balls have been manufactured from bamboo, hard rubber, willow roots, and leather-covered cork.The Brits would paint cricket balls white and use them as polo balls. Polo balls were wooden from the 1950s until the 1990s, when fiberglass balls (also called Argentinean balls) became popular. Polo balls today are made of very durable, high-impact plastic.
Making it Official
Ever wonder about how many officials it takes to make a polo game run smoothly? A polo game has three arbiters of safety and rules. You will notice two mounted umpires on the field, dressed in black and white striped shirts, who are following the field play. If these two umpires disagree on the play, they will consult a match referee, called the Third Man, who is on the sidelines. Umpires are trained by USPA Umpires LLC, which oversees the Umpire Program and organizes professional umpires for tournaments across the U.S.. Fouls in polo are generally structured to ensure the safety of the human and equine athletes. Umpires issue different levels of fouls and penalties based on the severity of the infraction.
Elephant Polo in Nepal
Arena polo
Two umpires and a Third Man
Polo Gear
5. DRAW REINS AND BRIDLE: This series of leather strapping, metal bit, and supports gives the player steering and stopping control.
6. SADDLE AND BREASTPLATE: Polo saddles have little padding under the leg, allowing for maximum movement, and the breastplate prevents the saddle from slipping during the game.
Polo mallets have bamboo or plastic shafts that are flexible and can make a complete arc under the pony’s neck or tail.
7. BANDAGES AND BOOTS: These protective wraps shield the pony’s legs against contact with the ball or other ponies.
1. HELMET: Hard, lined helmets protect the player’s head from swinging mallets and balls traveling up to 100 mph.
2. WHITES: Polo players always wear white breeches or jeans.
3. RIDING BOOTS AND KNEE PADS: Polo boots and knee pads provide protection for the player’s lower legs and knees.
4. POLO MALLET:
Foul Play
By John Tasdemir and KC Krueger
by Kaylee Wroe
Polo, the exhilarating sport where horses and mallets collide in a dance of speed and skill, is as much about finesse as it is about navigating the often murky waters of fouls. If you thought you could just gallop around swinging a mallet without a care in the world, think again! The rules of polo include a variety of fouls that can turn a casual game into a nail-biting affair and—sometimes—a comedy show.
On the field, the arbiters of law and order are the brave umpires, making the calls and catching the flack. Peter Blake, a USPA Umpires LLC-certified polo umpire, helps us break down the game for our spectators. Blake describes polo as a sport of “speed, distance, angles and danger.” While the officials have to focus on each of these elements, the most important is the safety of the human and equine athletes: “The intention is to have fun, fast-paced polo that’s team oriented and that’s not dangerous. I’d love not to blow the whistle at all to keep the players moving.”
Some players are very creative with pushing the boundaries of what is allowed. In fact, for some, it’s an art form. Blake, who may or may not have had his fair share of bumping up against that line in his 10-year playing career, has seen and adjudicated thousands of plays in his 3 years as an umpire. Paraphrasing Picasso, he describes players who have the game down to a science: “They learn the rules like a pro so they can break them like an artist.”
The Art of The Foul
Let’s start with the most common foul: “crossing.” Picture this: you’re charging down the field, ready to score, when suddenly, another player decides to cut in front of you like they’re trying to grab the last donut at a party. This is a big no-no in polo! Players must avoid crossing in front of an opponent who is already hitting the ball or risk getting a
Photos
penalty. So, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you’re tempted to intercept your opponent like a linebacker, just remember: there are no touchdowns in polo!
Umpires call fouls based on the safety of the players and ponies. This means that a legitimate defensive play—like a hook—can move into the foul territory if executed dangerously. A player can try to disrupt an opposing player’s shot by hooking their mallet around their opponent’s mallet—but it’s all in the delivery. It’s like trying to grab a fry off someone’s plate— there’s a right and a wrong way to do it. If the hooking is deemed too aggressive, you might just earn yourself a trip to the penalty box, which is less of a timeout and more of a “please rethink your life choices” moment.
Then there’s the “dangerous riding” foul, which covers everything from reckless galloping to riding too close to another player. Imagine a scene where two players are galloping side by side, and one decides to pull a stunt that would make a stunt double blush. This is strictly prohibited. If you’re riding dangerously, you could be penalized faster than you can say, “that was a poor life decision.”
Let’s not forget “impeding,” which is when one player blocks another from making a play. Think of it as trying to sneak past someone in a crowded bar only to find them standing there, oblivious to your mission for a drink. In polo, impeding can lead to a free hit for the other team. So, if your goal is to be a helpful teammate, maybe avoid standing in the way like a human traffic cone.
And, of course, there’s the classic “unsportsmanlike conduct.” This is the catch-all foul for anything that might involve excessive arguing, throwing your mallet in frustration, or perhaps even a dramatic fainting spell after a missed shot. This foul serves as a reminder that while the competition may be fierce, maintaining a sense of sportsmanship is key. After all, nobody wants to be known as “that player” who lost their cool over a ball that went astray.
Fouls in polo are as much a part of the game as the galloping horses and swinging mallets. Navigating these rules can be tricky, but if you keep your sense of humor intact—and maybe your mallet in check—you’re sure to enjoy the spirited game without ending up in the penalty box for a comical misstep. So, next time you watch a match, keep an eye out for those fouls; they might just be the best part of the show!
OFF-ROAD RENEGADE: INEOS GRENADIER
When production of the classic Land Rover Defender ceased in 2016, automotive enthusiasts and offroad purists were left with a gap in the market.
Enter Sir Jim Ratcliffe, billionaire founder and chairman of INEOS Group, a British multinational chemicals company.
A devoted fan of rugged, no-nonsense 4x4s, Ratcliffe saw an opportunity to revive the spirit of classic off-road vehicles while incorporating modern engineering and technology.
The result? The INEOS Grenadier—a vehicle designed to be as much a premium daily driver as it is a purposebuilt off-road machine.
While the Grenadier’s name evokes military toughness, it takes inspiration from the Grenadier Pub in London,
where the idea was first conceived. The team behind the Grenadier studied some of the most legendary offroad vehicles—Land Rover, Toyota FJ40, Willys Jeep, and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon—to develop a 4x4 that combines timeless utility with contemporary technology.
“At the outset of the Grenadier project, we brought some of the great 4x4s of the past into the studio to look closely at what made them so enduring,” said Toby Ecuyer, Head of Design at INEOS Automotive. “And now, it’s fantastic to see the Grenadier in the company of these legends. You can see common design traits and proportions and certainly the same clarity of purpose. I think the Grenadier sits very naturally among these 4x4 icons, and if others agree, then we’ve achieved our design objective.”
“Texas is built for the Grenadier, and the response from owners has been incredible. We’re just getting started—more adventure, more capability, and more ways to push the limits are on the horizon. Our goal is to keep delivering a vehicle that’s as tough and uncompromising as the people who drive it.”
—Ashton Mossy
BUILT FOR TEXAS
Texas is the perfect proving ground for the Grenadier. Its expansive landscapes, ranching communities, and offroad culture make it a natural home for a vehicle built to handle tough conditions. But the Grenadier isn’t just for weekend warriors—it’s designed to be an everyday driver as well. With a refined BMW-engineered 3.0L six-cylinder engine, a premium yet practical interior, and modern safety and infotainment features, it offers a comfortable, capable ride for both urban commutes and rugged adventures
Whether it’s navigating Houston’s highways or tackling rough terrain on a remote ranch, the Grenadier adapts
effortlessly. Drivers can configure it to suit their needs, with options ranging from stripped-down utility models to fully equipped luxury builds.
KEY FEATURES OF THE GRENADIER
• Body-on-frame chassis for exceptional durability
• Heavy-duty solid axles for improved off-road capability
• Advanced drivetrain with BMW-sourced petrol and diesel engine options
• Modern technology, including infotainment, lane assist, and collision prevention
• Fully customizable to fit both utility and premium lifestyle needs
DISCOVER THE GRENADIER IN HOUSTON
For those in Houston looking to experience the Grenadier firsthand, Mossy INEOS Grenadier is the exclusive dealership offering test drives, vehicle customization, and expert service. Contact Mossy INEOS Grenadier to learn more and see why this 4x4 is redefining both off-road toughness and everyday luxury.
Mossy INEOS Grenadier
12170 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079
281-817-8005 | MossyIneosGrenadierTX.com
The Matriarchal Line
Photos by Kaylee Wroe
The Houston Polo Club’s strong Polo School, Step Up, and Interscholastic programs create the perfect environment for polo players of all ages to learn together to grow the sport. Because of the broad range of programs, we are lucky to host families who learn, play, and compete together, creating a strong bond of teamwork across generations. Here are three mother-daughter duos who represent the deep range of talent, skill, and passion you will find at the Houston Polo Club.
Helen and Olivia Sellers
When the Sellers family returned to Texas after living abroad, the family was excited to find a new way to be active together. William, their youngest, expressed interest in joining the HPC Polo School, and his older sister Olivia decided that she would like to try it too. When Mark Prinsloo discovered that Helen had grown up riding on their family ranch in Australia and had a background in breeding, breaking, and dressage, he easily convinced her to sign up and try her hand at the sport.That was in September 2023—and since then, the family have become enthusiastic members of the club. In the 2025 season, Helen and Olivia are playing together in the Houston Polo Club’s Pro Am league.
“I’ve really found a great community of interesting people from all over Houston at the club,” says Olivia. “The polo club really brought us into the Houston community. I have learned so much about the city.”
“I cannot speak highly enough of Tammy and John, who are running the club, and of course, Mark Prinsloo and the team at Polo School,” adds Helen. “They are just the most amazing, brilliant, professional people. And they deal with a lot, and they’ve been an absolute breath of fresh air in our world.”
In addition to joining a great equine community, Olivia has found polo to be an incredible escape from the pressure of academics. “I put a lot of stress on myself with school. Whenever I feel like, ‘Okay, I can miss this class. I’m ahead enough,’ I will get my Mom to drive me to the club to help out because I love it so much. It’s so nice to get out on the field and not think about school projects. I’m just out there having fun and enjoying it. Also, there’s so much going on in the game that you have to be laser-focused. If you lose focus for a second, you’ll miss a play.”
Polo has been a bonding experience for Helen and Olivia as well. It is an outlet to play and grow as a family and a healthy hobby for her kids.
“What I love about polo and horses for the children is no telephone, no iPad,” says Helen. “My son likes to go off with the pixies—but if you go off with the pixies on the pony, you fall off the pony. They love the ponies, and I appreciate that they have an animal whose care they are responsible for.”
On the field, Helen loves the playful competition with her daughter: “How wonderful with a teenage daughter, that you can ride them off, bump them, and push them around a bit. And now she gives it back to me!” She is also excited to share her lifetime of horsemanship experience.
“Generally, my mom knows way more about all of the really technical stuff, but I can talk to her about it,” says Olivia.“When we ride our favorite horse, Rosie, on the same day, I’m able to ask her questions about why she’s doing what she’s doing or what I’m doing wrong with my riding.”
Olivia’s experience at the polo club has had an unexpected influence on her future—it helped her narrow down her options for university. “Polo is so important in my life. It really nailed down where I want to go to college, from a hundred different schools to more like 20 schools. After school, I want to play at a high level and really understand the technique.”
Sheila and Lily Lequerica
Sheila Lequerica grew up riding hunter/ jumper and found intercollegiate polo while studying at Colorado State University. She has been playing and living in Houston for 20 years, where she and her husband, CJ, are indemand horse trainers. Her daughter, Lily, who has been playing polo “since I can remember,” has already had some incredible achievements in her young career: she played for Team USA in the first FIP Women’s World Polo Championship, where they made it all the way to the final against Argentina, and she has been a leader on Houston Interscholastic teams that brought two Open National Interscholastic Championships home to Houston. Lily plays in Florida in the winter and has aspirations to have her name on Wellington’s National Polo Field in the very near future.
When Sheila came to Houston, she found not only her calling in horse training but also a strong community.“We really feel like we have family here in Houston, even though they’re not blood relatives. The people here look out for each other and help each other out.”
Lily’s love of the sport grew and was fostered through her involvement in Mark Prinsloo’s interscholastic training program. Sheila has seen how important polo has been in shaping her daughter’s values:“The team sport aspect is very beneficial,” she says.“Also, having to think of animals, not just yourself, is an important lesson. It’s not just you being fit and ready for a game, but it’s also the horses that you ride.The kids have to be conscious of and responsible for the animals that they’re playing.”
For Lily, that’s the best part: “I love the horses. You can be a great player, but without horses, you won’t go anywhere. They take you to the next level. I grew up playing an LA Waters quarter horse named Mike. I still play him now. He’s held together by duct tape because his legs are so crooked, but I love him so much.”
Sheila has watched her daughter turn into a formidable player. “She’s a team player and has been happy to get in there and do the dirty work. She’s doing a lot of work behind the scenes—and she can ride anything, so her horsemanship is right up there, too.” As members of the Houston Polo Club, however, the mother/daughter
duo sometimes play against each other, which means that Sheila has to keep her wits about her in competition: “Just this fall, we played against each other in the women’s tournament in Houston. Of course, we drew her team for the first game, and I was like, ‘Oh great.’ I just remember running down the field, playing against her and just smiling, having so much fun watching her do her
thing and then remembering, ‘Oh wait, I’m supposed to defend this person.’”
For her part, Lily has felt her mom’s support throughout her growth in the sport.“When I got asked to go play in the FIP, I thought it was cool that my mom was coaching me and managing all of the horses that we had to play. She’s my biggest cheerleader—I can always hear her on the field.”
Chrys Beal and KC Krueger
The Beal family has a deep polo history in Houston, California, and nationally. Carlton Beal, KC’s great-grandfather, was a 6-goal professional player who served as governor of the USPA, the Polo Training Foundation, and the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame. KC’s grandfather and father played polo out of Midland, which is where Chrys learned to ride.
“I didn’t start playing polo until KC was about 15,” says Chrys. “We had three girls, and KC was the rider in the family. She rode on her jumper and did a little eventing. We had a lot of fun riding horses together. And then, when she turned 15 and quit playing competitive tennis, we started going out to the barn and just stick and balling with Kelly, my husband, for fun. It turned out to be a lot more fun than I thought. Instead of riding by myself on my horse to do dressage, I was riding with a lot of people out on the field in a community. And it didn’t take KC very long to become very adept at playing and begin to carry everybody in her family on the polo field.”
There’s no other sport where you play with your child, and you’re treated as equals. You have to treat them with respect, and they treat you with respect. And if you do that, it’s a really fun way to have a relationship with your child.
—Chrys
Beal
Polo is truly a family affair in the Beal family. Although KC’s sisters don’t play competitively, they have gotten out on the field together on occasion: “Before women’s polo was really organized and everybody had handicaps, clubs would offer women’s tournaments for fun. I played with my three daughters, and we won a big tournament in New Mexico and a tournament in Dallas. I don’t know if we ever won a tournament in Midland, but the four of us playing as a family was the highlight of my polo career.”
KC and her mom have played in many women’s and mixed tournaments together, and they are a force to be reckoned with: in the 2024 season, KC and Chrys’s BTA team won the 6-Goal Spring League championship.
“I have a lot of good memories with her,” says KC. “And not just on the tournament
field—riding with her and stick and balling with her is fun and irreplaceable. She taught me and my sisters how to ride, and so when we started playing polo, we had the most fun talking about how the horses ride and how we could make them better. She is always teaching me. Now we’re transitioning into breeding, which has started to take over the table talks.”
In addition to playing with her,Chrys loves to watch her daughter on the field. “KC has an incredible capacity to see what’s going on everywhere on the field. She has a great anticipation of where the play is going, and she can ride anything. I remember when I put her in a pony lesson when she was five, and the instructor looked at me and said, ‘I can’t teach her anything.’ She’s a natural on horseback. That’s her gift, and I’m just lucky to be related to her.”
Cindy Case Sales Agent, Houston
National Youth Tournament Series 2024
Presented by Bill Fick Ford
The National Youth Tournament Series (NYTS) qualifiers give our talented young (under 19) players a chance to compete at the national level. Qualifiers are held at polo clubs across the United States during the summer months. NYTS All-Stars are announced at each qualifier, and each All-Star is in contention for being selected for the NYTS Championship, held each year in the fall.
The NYTS qualifier division, presented by Bill Fick Ford, had four teams competing for spots on the NYTS Championship team. All-
stars are selected at each NYTS qualifier based on their horsemanship, sportsmanship, playing ability, current handicap, and team ability. Seven of our young players qualified as 2024 All-Stars.
The club would like to thank Bill Fick Ford for their generous sponsorship of the 2024 Houston Polo Cub Junior Tournament and NYTS Qualifier.
Winning team: Vintage Polo Hayden Baisch, Josie Goldstein, Judah Altic, Joe Bob Lequerica, presented by Steven Armour, Chrys Beal, Paul Jornayvaz, and Mark Prinsloo
Tournament All-Stars Jordan Fikes, Faris Hanna, Joe Bob Lequerica, Lily Lequerica, JB Long,Tomas Tejera, Uma Villanueva, presented by Paul Jornayvaz, Steven Armour, Chrys Beal, and Mark Prinsloo
QR Jets (Winning Team): Gus Orthwein, Gael Munoz, Santos Villanueva
MVP: Santos “Poroto”Villanueva
Traveller’s Rest: Annadora Orthwein, Olivia Wroe C-Bar Thoroughbreds: Rex Middleton, Russell Melnar Forthebirds Farms: Landon Melnar, Levi Torres
JOIN T HE FUN
Learn to play from the highest-rated USPA polo instructor in the USA! Mark Prinsloo brings 20+ years of teaching and playing experience to the field. All ages and skill levels are welcome!
Spring Polo School
April 12–June 3
Fall Polo School
September 16–November 9
School is in session twice a week: Tuesdays (6–8 pm) and Saturdays (9–11 am).
What Will I Learn?
Proper polo horsemanship Game strategy
Swinging instructions Rules of the game Line of the ball
Sign Up & Receive These Perks:
2 Tickets to Sunday Polo Matches Invites to HPC Social Events
Use of the HPC Polo Hitting Cage Polo School Graduation trophy item
No previous riding experience is necessary!
Too Cool for School?
Take a 2-hour polo clinic for just $200
For more information about Polo School programs, email us at playpolo@thehoustonpoloclub.com
Step Up Leagues
The next step after Polo School isn’t a leap: it’s one step at a time to build your skills and passion for the sport!
The Margarita League: Each team has one instructor and two players, who receive individual coaching and grow at their own pace.
2-Goal League: With three players and an instructor per team, this league focuses on building up riding and stick-and-ball skills.
Pro Am League : Two sponsoring players play with two professional polo players who guide and coach the learning players in technique and strategy.
2024 National Interscholastic Champs!
With files from the U.S. Polo Association
Houston Polo Club’s Interscholastic team successfully defended their third consecutive championship title at the 2024 Open National Interscholastic Championship, held at the Brookshire Polo Club in March 2024. Battling over three days of competition, the finale on Sunday, March 10, pitted two-time defending champions and current Central Regional winners Houston against Wisconsin’s Wildcard contender St. Croix. Houston came out victorious with a 13–7 win.
“It felt unreal winning nationals three times in a row. It meant the world to me getting to play with Lily one last time before she goes to college. Lily and Joe Bob are two amazing, devoted, and hard-working polo players,” said Judah Altic. Joe Bob added,“A lot of hard work allowed for the three-peat this year. It means a lot to me because my sister has always been my best teammate, and we play so well together, it felt really good to send her off with a win.”
“My I/I experience was nothing short of amazing,” said Lily. “I got to play with and against close friends, got to ride some amazing horses, and was part of two National Championship wins [2023, 2024].”
Joe Bob Lequerica and Lily Lequerica were named Championship AllStars. In addition, Joe Bob Lequerica received the Horsemanship Award, and Best Playing String was awarded to Houston Polo Club.
2024 Open National Interscholastic Championship Team: Asa Gangjee, Judah Altic, Coach Mark Prinsloo, Assistant Coach Shane Rice, Joe Bob Lequerica, Lily Lequerica (missing from the photo:Tomas Tejerina) (Photo by David Murrell)
Photo by Kaylee Wroe
To say that Jeff Hall set his sights on a polo career very early is an understatement. In fact, Jeff was riding by 4, handling a polo mallet by 6, and playing 12-Goal polo by age 10! When his family moved to Houston in his early teens, Jeff had already begun competing in Argentina. His pro career took off when he hit the Florida circuit.
Jeff’s year typically takes him to Florida for the winter season, Santa Barbara for the summer, and back home to Houston—where he, his wife, and two boys live on their family ranch—for the spring and fall. Jeff’s incredible career was rightfully honoured in 2023 when he was the youngest polo pro in the U.S. to be inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame. Currently holding a 5-goal handicap, Jeff is one of the best players in the world and one of just a few highly rated American players.
Did you have any early polo mentors?
My dad played polo as a sponsor for about 30 years, so I grew up watching him play. Then, early on, I was around mentors like Corky Linfoot, Mike Conant, and Tommy Wayman—that whole era. And then moving on, it was Christian Laprida, Esteban Canelo, Ernesto Trotz, and that crew when I was really young—12 to 14. As I got older, I was learning from everyone all the time.
How has the sport changed in the 20 years you have been playing as a pro?
The horses have gotten a lot better. Players have gotten quicker, faster, and more talented. The rule changes have made polo faster. And then,
A LIFE IN POLO: JEFF HALL
like everything, when bigger money gets introduced, everything changes quite a bit. We see that happening in Florida, where it is pretty intense and very competitive.
What makes Houston Polo Club unique?
The club is very old and well established.What’s unique about Houston Polo Club is its location—having the field downtown is not something you see in many places. And then we have private fields spread out across the outskirts of the city where we also play. I’m excited about this year because we’re going to get back to the 12-Goal polo. I’ve been committed to helping it get back to the 12-Goal level. Lower-goal polo is a very good on-ramp for new players coming in, and the higher-goal leagues help polo flourish.
You’ve had a lot of career highlights. Is there a peak moment for you, or is it just a series of peaks?
It’s funny.You just never know what seasons are going to be better than others. You prepare for everything, and sometimes you feel like you have the best team going into it, and you don’t win. Then sometimes you feel like maybe you don’t have the best team, but everybody clicks. That’s the fun thing about polo. You have to wait until you get on the field to see how everything meshes and how everybody’s playing at the moment—including the horses. So, highlights are fun, but polo highlights are short-lived. It’s like, “That was fun, but what are we doing next?” As you’re playing that season, you’re constantly preparing for the next season. Time flies.
You were inducted into the Polo Hall of Fame in 2023. What was that experience like for you?
That was a weird one. It was a shock! I didn’t think they would call me so early. The good thing was that I had all my family members around to enjoy the experience. My dad was there, and my wife and kids. It was definitely an honor.
What do you do outside of polo?
I love to play golf and tactical shooting. I like aviation, although I haven’t been able to do much of it because polo really demands all my time. And with two boys as well, my free time is needed elsewhere now— with them. My older son just turned 14 and loves basketball, and my youngest one is 10. He really connects with the horses, and he’s starting to ride a lot with me, so that’s fun.
Do you have a favorite polo pony?
That is difficult because I have a lot of favorites. My favorite all-time pony is a mare called Maple Leaf. I have four clones of her, three of which are training with me now—they are stick and balling and are going to start practices. I have a few current favorites, including Felina and Dia Maria. New ponies are always fun to play because they get better all the time.You are just waiting for them to show you their plateau.
What is your polo style or philosophy?
I like to play organized on defense—really man-to-man. I play zones if it’s not working, but I like quick, fast, hard defensive play. Man-toman is a classic style: it makes everyone on the team responsible and accountable. If everybody focuses on their job, it’s very clean.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
• Jeff has won every high-goal tournament in the United States, including the most prestigious, the U.S. Open, in 2003.
• Record-holder for most wins of the USPA Silver Cup—he has won the cup 10 times between 1997 and 2022.
• One of few American pros to have played in the prestigious Argentine Open.
• Four-time International Polo Cup winner playing for Team USA (2012 against England, 2013 against Chile, 2015 against South Africa, and 2020 against Argentina).
• Three America’s Cup wins (2005, 2011, and 2012; he was named MVP in 2011).
• Jeff holds wins for over 15 other major U.S. and international tournaments, including the Bronze Cup (Spain), East Coast Gold Cup, Robert Skene Memorial Gold Cup, and Pacific Coast Open.
Jeff Hall celebrates his 2023 inauguration into the Polo Hall of Fame with his family
LET’S CREATE A HOME THAT’S AS EXTRAORDINARY AS YOU ARE.
2024 Houston Women’s Polo Championship
Presented by Mossy INEOS Grenadier & QR Jets
The Fall 2024 Houston Polo Club season culminated with the 2024 Houston Women’s Polo Championship, sponsored by Mossy INEOS Grenadier and QR Jets.The event started with a kick-off celebration followed by a week of polo featuring four different tournament levels played by a total of 67 women.This week was made possible thanks to the generosity of private field owners; support from corporate sponsors; tons of effort by family members, friends, and grooms; and most importantly—the horses!
Winner: Lugano: Kendall Plank, Dayelle Fargey,Tiamo Hudspeth, Audry Persano. Lugano representative Denise Wynne is pictured with Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
U.S. Open Women’s Handicap
The U.S. Open Women’s Handicap featured four teams playing at the 16–20-Goal level.The final featured a fierce battle between defending champions Lugano and QR Jets. Lugano took the title with a final score of 4–3.
Tiamo Hudspeth, pictured with Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
BPP (Amateur): Shirley, owned and played by KC Krueger, pictured with Chrys Beal and daughter Shirley, groom Cesar Romero, Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
BPP (Professional): Bonnie, owned and played by Malia Bryan, pictured with Haley Bryan, Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
MVP:
USPA Women’s Challenge
The 10–12-Goal USPA Women’s Challenge fielded eight teams in a competitive 3-day tournament. After an exciting day of semi-final games played out, the final saw defending champions American National and Mossy INEOS Grenadier battle it out. Mossy INEOS Grenadier took the title with a 9.5–3 win at the final horn.
Winner: Mossy INEOS Grenadier: Isabelle Muncey, Cara Kennedy, Maddie Grant, Grace Burgert, pictured with Shirley Krueger and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
BPP (Professional): Mito, owned and played by Maddie Grant, pictured with Sophie Grant, sponsored by U.S. Mexico Chamber of Commerce,Ana Marie Simmons & granddaughter
MVP: Maddie Grant, pictured with QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
BPP (Amateur): Nube, owned and played by Cara Kennedy, pictured with Joscelyn Lequerica and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
Farish Cup Invitational Bayou City Cup Invitational
Winner: Texas SBA: Carter Nix, Cindy Madole,Taylor Shell, Laura Cervantes sponsored by Texas SBA, pictured with QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
Winner: Summit: Margherita Pettinelli, Grazielle Vollers, and Carter Nix, pictured with Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
MVP: Carter Nix, pictured with QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
MVP: Grazielle Vollers, pictured with Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets,Todd Riemenschneider
BPP: Silk, played by Carolyn Stimmel, owned by Crystal Cassidy, pictured with Tammy Livingston, sponsored by Sandra Wilder from Bemer
BPP: Frieda, owned and played by Carter Nix, sponsored by The Fitzpatrick Group, Luke Jander, pictured with Mossy INEOS Grenadier, Robert Delaneo and QR Jets, Todd Riemenschneider
Winner’s Circle 2024
USPA Keleen & Carlton Beal Cup (12 Goal)
Winner: BTA/Tonkawa
(L to R) Mason Wroe, Jack Kiely, KC Krueger, Jeff Hildebrand
Runner Up: CW Petroleum/Old Pueblo
Leigh Anne Hall, Chris Williams, Steve Krueger, Jeff Hall
USPA H. Ben Taub Memorial (12 Goal)
Presented by McCathern Law
Winner: CW Petroleum/Propaganda
Chris Williams, Nick Cifuni, Steve Krueger, Paul Hobby
Runner Up: 3L Energy Solutions/Old Pueblo
Bryan Middleton, Jeff Hall, Nick Dunbar, Leigh Anne Hall
USPA Texas Open (12 Goal)
Presented by Lockton
Winner: 3L Energy Solutions/CW Petroleum
Chris Williams, Nick Dunbar, Steve Krueger, Bryan Middleton
Runner Up: Propaganda/Old Pueblo
Jeff Hall, Nick Cifuni, Jeff Hildebrand, Leigh Anne Hall
Douglas
Elliman Cup (12 Goal)
Presented by Douglas Elliman
Winner: BTA/Propaganda
Mason Wroe, Paul Hobby, Nick Cifuni, KC Krueger
Runner Up: Cinco Canyon Ranch/CW Petroleum
David Marks, Chris Williams, Steve Krueger, Bryan Middleton
Winner’s Circle 2024
USPA Southwestern Regional Classic (12 Goal)
Presented by The Macallan
Winner: Brookshire Polo Club
Tommy Alberdi, Quinn Evans,Toro Ruiz, Scott Wood
Runner Up: La Elina
Pipe Marquez, Joao Aranha,Toto Obregon, Bobby Gerry
Dos Hombres Classic (12 Goal)
Presented by Dos Hombres
Winner: 3L Energy Solutions/CW Petroleum
Chris Williams, Nick Dunbar, Alvaro Ara, Jorge Cernadas
Runner Up: Horsegate
Anson Moore, Cesar Ara, Marcos Alberdi, Sloan Stefanakis
USPA Western Challenge (12 Goal)
Presented by Champagne Charles Heidsiek
Winner: Brookshire Polo Club
Scott Wood,Tommy Alberdi, Quinn Evans,Toro Ruiz
Runner Up: La Elina
Pipe Marquez, Joao Aranha,Toto Obregon, Benjamin Gonzalez Bergez
(Not pictured: Bobby Gerry)
USPA Livingston Memorial (12 Goal)
Presented by The Fitzpatrick Group
Winner: BTA/CW Petroleum
Mason Wroe, Chrys Beal, Steve Krueger, Chris Williams
Runner Up: Cinco Canyon Ranch/Old Pueblo
Leigh Anne Hall, Jeff Hall, David Marks, Bryan Middleton
Winner’s Circle 2024
General
S. Brown Cup (6 Goal)
Winner: BTA
Chrys Beal, Maddie Grant, Harrison Azzaro, KC Krueger
Runner Up: Island Time Polo/Plank Companies
Joe Wayne Barry,Tommy Alberdi, Kendall Plank, Michelle Agrons
Master’s Cup (6 Goal)
Winner: Pegasus
David Andras, Mason Wroe, Joe Bob Lequerica, Lily Lequerica
Runner Up: Mother Chukker Polo/Schiffer Hicks Johnson LLC
International Cup: Rikus Cilliers, Propaganda/W-S, presented by Steven Armour, USPA Governor-at-Large
USPA Southwestern Regional Classic: Joao Aranha, La Elina, presented by Halle Garrus and Juliana Hernandez from The Macallan
USPA H. Ben Taub Memorial: Chris Williams, CW Petroleum/Propaganda, presented by Rodney Drinnon with McCathern Law and Henry Wessel and Kitch Taub
Douglas Elliman Classic: Pipe Marquez, La Elina, presented by Suede Vossos and Cindy Case with Douglas Elliman
Macallan Classic: Vaughn Miller Jr, 3L Energy Solutions, presented by Halle Garrus and Juliana Hernandez with The Macallan
USPA Keleen and Carlton Beal Cup: KC Krueger, BTA, pictured with Chrys and Kelly Beal, Carty and Shirley Krueger, presented by Kay Diamond with Reece Bath+Kitchen
Douglas Elliman Cup: Nick Cifuni, pictured with Charlotte Cifuni and presented by Cindy Case with Douglas Elliman
USPA Governor’s Cup: Mason Wroe, Pegasus, presented by Kimo Huddleston, pictured with Evelyn and Olivia
USPA Texas Open: Jeff Hildebrand, Old Pueblo/Propaganda, presented by Will Barto from Lockton
Dos Hombres Classic: Jorge Cernadas, presented by Sarah Arias with Dos Hombres
Penny Cup: Jack Kiely, Piney Woods Polo, pictured with Matthew Vesley with C. Baldwin Hotel
King’s Cup: Carin Middleton, 3L Energy Solutions/C-Bar Thoroughbreds, presented by Shannon Galvin and Ashley Aguilar with American National
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Best Playing Ponies of 2024
International Cup: Sugar, played by Rikus Cilliers, pictured with groom George Hart, presented by Shikah Honawar from Sydenham Clinic
USPA Livingston Memorial: Billy Jean, owned and played by Mason Wroe, pictured with Lytha Wendt & Evelyn, presented by Tammy Livingston and friends
USPA Keleen & Carlton Beal Cup: Larry, owned and played by Steve Krueger, pictured with groom Pedro Alegre presented by Shikah Honawar from Sydenham Clinic
HPC Director’s Cup: Zunda, owned and played by Bryan Middleton, pictured with grooms Juan Baez and Margarita Martinez, presented by the Bhatia family with the Sydenham Clinic
Penny Cup: Chichi, owned and played by Jack Kiely, presented by Shikah Honawar from Sydenham Clinic
USPA Western Challenge: Don Ercole Pili, played by Toro Ruiz, pictured with grooms Jorge Rusi and Luciano Fenocchio
USPA Southwest Regional Classic (Pro): Tres Montes Tarma, owned and played by Toro Ruiz, pictured with grooms, Luciano Fenocchio, Jorge Rusi and Carlos Ramirez, presented by Anchal Bhatia, owner of the Sydenham Clinic
USPA Texas Open: Jolie, owned and played by Steve Krueger, pictured with grooms Pedro Alegre and Cesar Romero, presented by the Sydenham Clinic and associates
Meet the Pros
Toro Ruiz, 7 Argentina
Ignacio Saenz, 3 Brookshire,TX
Jimmy Seward, 3 Pattison,TX
Matt Thake, 3 South Africa
Miguel Torres, 3 Navasota,TX
Tommy Alberdi, 4 Wellington, FL Alvaro Ara, 4 Argentina
