Sarasota Polo Magazine - 2023

AD

Welcome Sarasota Polo Enthusiasts!

O

n behalf of my wife Misdee and myself, along with our dedicated staff, we are pleased to welcome you to the Sarasota Polo Club’s 32nd Season.

Established in 1991 as the first development in Lakewood Ranch, the Sarasota Polo Club and The Polo Ranches of Sarasota have a remarkable legacy. As only the second family to own the Sarasota Polo Club, we are honored to continue this rich heritage and are excited to begin the fifth season as your host and hostess!

Every summer, our staff works quickly to repair the wear and tear caused by the previous season of polo, while planning and implementing new additions and improvements to the facilities. In October, Hurricane Ian paid us an unfriendly visit, forcing us to remove many of our large oak and palm trees, while also requiring repairs that were not on the schedule. We dodged what could have caused much more significant damage, and our thoughts and prayers go out daily to our southern neighbors who endured much worse.

We apologize if we appear unfinished at the start of the 2023 Season.

This season brings several exciting new features. The interior Member’s Clubhouse renovations that began last season are finally complete, and the venue is officially ready for your next celebration! We are also excited to introduce the arrival of an antique London Bus. “The Hemingway,” as she is called, is an open-top double decker 1960’s London Bus that has been converted to a hospitality bar and spectator venue. She will be located at midfield on our North side and offer a variety of ticket options. To purchase tickets for the London Bus Terrace, simply visit www.SarasotaPolo.com and click the ‘Buy Tickets’ button in the upper righthand corner.

We invite you to come enjoy a safe and celebratory afternoon with your family, friends, or colleagues every Sunday from January 1st through April 30th. Florida is well-known for its beautiful, sandy beaches. We pride ourselves in being known for our unique, inland, foot-friendly “Green Beach.” We are a family-friendly facility, and friendly dogs are welcome on leashes. Don’t forget, we don’t just have polo on Sundays! For four weeks mid-season, we will resume our Thursday evening Sunset Polo Happy Hour series.

Finally, we are more than just polo! The Sarasota Polo Club’s facilities and venues are home to a variety of community and social events - including concerts, festivals, sporting events, corporate meetings, charity fundraisers and elegant weddings.

To stay up-to-date on all of the Sarasota Polo Club’s events, I encourage you to connect with us on Facebook (@SarasotaPoloClubatLakewoodRanch) and Instagram (@ SarasotaPolo).

Misdee and I thank you for your continued support. We are thrilled to be sharing another fun-filled season of Sarasota Polo with our fans, friends, neighbors and guests from around the globe.

Have a wonderful time.

James Miller

Owner Sarasota Polo Club

James & Misdee Miller

FEBRUARY

JANUARY

2023 Schedule JANUARY 1

JANUARY 8

JANUARY 15

JANUARY 22

JANUARY 29

New Year’s Resolution Cup

8-Goal Wayne Brown Memorial

8-Goal Wayne Brown Memorial

8-Goal Wayne Brown Memorial

8-Goal Wayne Brown Memorial

FEBRUARY 5

FEBRUARY 12

FEBRUARY 19

FEBRUARY 26

8-Goal Wayne Brown Memorial

8-Goal Wayne Brown Memorial Final

Sarasota Women’s 16-Goal USPA Challenge Continental Cup

Woofminster Dog Show Presented by Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

70’s Disco Party

Presented by Sirius Day Spa, Salon & Med Spas Pretty in Pink

Pajama Slumber Party

Military Day

APRIL

MARCH

EVERY SUNDAY AT 1 PM

MARCH 5

MARCH 12

MARCH 19

MARCH 26

16-Goal USPA Continental Cup

16-Goal USPA Continental Cup

16-Goal USPA Continental Cup Final

12-Goal USPA National InterCircuit Challenge

APRIL 16

APRIL 23

Spring Break at the Green Beach

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Hawaiian Luau

APRIL 2

APRIL 9

8-Goal Gerry Aschinger Memorial Final

12-Goal USPA 12-Goal USPA Hillcroft Open National Inter-Circuit National Inter-Circuit Championship Championship Final

Wild Wild West

Easter Eggstravaganza & Annual Helicopter Egg Drop

January 1st through

April 30th Presented By

CRUISEEPLANNERSSMARCCBOKOFFF

marc@bookthatescape.com APRIL 30 www.bookthatescape.com/srqluxurytravel Telephone:844-768-2799

Hillcroft Open

Super Hero Sunday

EVERY THURSDAY AT 5:30 PM

March 16th through April 6th Presented By

TO PURCHASE TICKETS, VISIT SAR ASOTAPOLO.COM

Use Promo Code

POLO at booking for a special offer

3400 Gulf Boulevard St. Pete Beach Fl 33706 800.282.1116 www,doncesar.com

YOUR JEWELER FOR LIFE.

Fancy Pink Radiant Diamond 1.54ct. GIA Platinum Ring

mccarvermoser.com 941.387.8000

BRING YOUR

Dream Kitchen

TO LIFE

Our locally, female-owned & operated, veteran-led business has been turning visions into reality for over 10 years for Sarasota & Manatee County homeowners. Our showroom and stone yard has a wide variety and our knowledgeable, seasoned team can help you make the best decision for your kitchen & your budget. Come Plan it at Planet!

OUTDOOR KITCHENS & BARS

THE AREA’S PREMIER NATURAL STONE PROVIDER

MARBLE, GRANITE & QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS

SARASOTA AND BRADENTON’S PREFERRED CAMBRIA DEALER

PlanetStone.com | (941) 269-1457 Visit us at our Bradenton Design Center at 601 6th Avenue West • Bradenton

Let’s talk horsepower.

Owning a private jet makes getting to your next business meeting or event even faster and more enjoyable. Bloom Business Jets is your all-inclusive connection to efficient, time-saving and convenient private business aviation. Our team of experts are skilled at finding the personal flying option that fits your specific needs—be it purchasing your first jet or upgrading your existing aircraft.

With more than 35 years of experience, Bloom Business Jets is your key to making the leap into private air travel.

, Inc.

For direct inquiries, contact Steve Bloom at (303) 946-9105 • bloombusinessjets.com

contents Meet the Cover Artist

Extreme Makeover: Clubhouse Edition

All Aboard the London Bus

The Season of 2023 Magazine cover artist, Lincy Hoogveld, captured the essence of the Sarasota Polo Club in her newest painting.

Discover how the Sarasota Polo Club Member’s Clubhouse has transformed from a western, ranch-style space to a contemporary, upscale retreat.

Get an inside look at how the Sarasota Polo Club’s newest addition traveled all the way from the United Kingdom to Sarasota, Florida.

12

28

People of Polo:

Spotlighting the stories of a few Sarasota Polo Club partners. Learn how they fell in love with the “fastest game on four feet”.

56

Meet the Viana Brothers:

Two up-and-coming polo superstars who are thriving at the Sarasota Polo Club.

60

Sarasota Polo School:

Players of all ages and experience levels have fallen in love with the sport of polo under the direction of Neil and Ashlie Osburg.

38

64

FEATURES & DEPARTMENTS

Keeping Polo Fit:

Ever wonder how our veteran members and players stay in peak riding shape? We highlight five of their fitness regimens.

68

Chocola the Wonder Pony:

70

Behind the Scenes Heroes:

This polo pony’s unflappable demeanor has made her a staple of the Sunday Polo opening ceremony.

Our 2023 Best Groom Award recipient and honorable mentions tell their stories on what it’s like being a groom.

54

Season of 2023 Schedule..........1 Credits..................................... 10 Salute Our Sponsors............... 16 Learn the Polo Basics.............. 18 Polopedia.................................22 Tools of the Trade...................26 What is That?..........................36 Dogs of Polo............................43 The Continental Cup.............50 Sunset Polo Happy Hour.......52 Helicopter Easter Egg Drop..... 53

sar asota polo

202 3

|

6

Salute Our Players...................77 Meet the Staff..........................84 Sidelines...................................87 Kids of Polo.............................90 Action......................................92 2022 Winner’s Circle............104 2022 Best Playing Ponies......112 2022 Season Award Winners...114 2022 Season Best Fan........... 116 Grounds Map........................ 118 Championship Field Map....120

Dedication Quality Mastery From the very moment the John Cannon Homes team meets with you, we understand it’s your legacy we’re helping build. Whatever your style of architecture, Coastal, Transitional, Contemporary, Spanish Colonial, Mizner or Italian Mediterranean, we can design and build the home you envision.

It’s your dream home and we’re going to make sure it is exactly what you want.

Call 941.361.1300 for your private tour of our Corporate Offices and Design Center today! www.johncannonhomes.com

6710 Professional Parkway, Suite 100 Sarasota, FL 34240 | 941.924.5935 CGCA18551

Y

ou have a world to explore.

You have a passion to follow.

You have a desire to enjoy all that life has to offer. And at Fifth Third Private Bank, we’re here to help write your story.

When you partner with us, we’ll provide you with a dedicated, local advisor, backed by a team of financial professionals and digital solutions.

Together, we can achieve even more.

Let’s write your story.

AD

53.com/privatebank Proud supporters of Sarasota Polo

Fifth Third Private Bank is a division of Fifth Third Bank, National Association.

Deposit and credit products provided by Fifth Third Bank, National Association. Member FDIC.

© 2022 Pandora Jewelry, LLC • All rights reserved

THE MALL AT UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER Center Court | 941.893.3948

credits Sarasota Polo Magazine is the official annual publication of the Sarasota Polo Club.

Sarasota Polo Club 8201 Polo Club Lane Sarasota, FL 34240 941.907.0000 SarasotaPolo.com Director of Operations

Project Management Partner A.E. Engine, Inc. 23110 State Road 54 Suite 293 Lutz, FL 33549 727.608.8102

Director of Polo

Craig Baroncelli

Paige Lautzenheiser Mason Wroe

Director of Sales & Marketing

Ron Trytek

Publisher

Art Director

Joe Rabuck

Traffic Coordinator & Graphic Designer

Director of Maintenance

Nicole Cooper

Field Staff

Contributing Writers Dan Guttenplan Paige Lautzenheiser Abby Weingarten

Bryan Zdancewicz Nicholas Chavez Jason Davis Tucker Reback Sarasota Polo Magazine

Co-Editors-in-Chief

Paige Lautzenheiser Ron Trytek

Photographers Julio Aguilar Curt Leimbach John Longo Eric Nalpas

Sarasota Polo Magazine specifies that post-press changes may occur to any information presented in this publication and takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised.

sar asota polo

202 3

|

10

MEET THE COVER

ARTIST

Lincy

Sarasota Polo Club patrons may not be familiar with the art of Lincy Hoogveld, a resident of the Netherlands who has become a favorite of Sarasota Polo Club owners James and Misdee Miller.

This past summer, Hoogveld was commissioned to produce the cover artwork for the 2023 edition of the Sarasota Polo Magazine. She decided to use her layer painting technique to craft an eye-catching canvas that fits the spirit of the Sarasota Polo Club and its long-standing tradition of polo in the Lakewood Ranch community.

Hoogveld explained the motivation behind her art and the cover subject to Sarasota Polo Magazine.

How long have you been a professional artist?

“I have been an artist for all of my life. I sold my first piece of art - an extraordinary cat - when I was 10 years old. Growing up, art was a central theme in my life, as I was surrounded by my mother’s oil paintings and bronze sculptures. It was almost a natural process that I became a professional artist. When I finished school, I gradually began to develop my own style and techniques to become the artist sar asota polo

that I am today. I continue to develop my skills; this process does not ever stop. Every day I work hard to develop further and further.

How do you like to work? With music? In silence? In a studio?

At home?

“I work best alone in my workshop at home. I can concentrate on my ideas and take the time that I need without being bothered by visitors. To be honest, the most perfect and inspiring moments are typically during the evening hours, as my art assistant is often present at my workshop during the day.”

What inspires you? What do you love to create?

“It is exciting to explore and create new things all the time both new materials and new designs. My challenge is to create continuous movement, change and progress in my techniques and works.”

202 3

|

12

Hoogveld

What is the inspiration behind the art created for the cover of the 2023 Edition of the Sarasota Polo Magazine?

“I wanted a painting with power and strength, so I tried to make it as powerful as possible – strong in color, big in the design. I wanted it to show the fast-paced action of the sport, and the beauty and grace of the connection between the horse and rider.”

What is the texture of the art? What materials were used?

“I build up my paintings through layers – about 10 layers, on average. I use oil paint and acrylics as well as ink, gold leaf and lacquers. While I am waiting for one piece of art to dry, I start working (or continue working) on another one. One day each week, I experiment with new materials and structures. At the moment that I am satisfied with the effects of these experiments, I add these new materials, effects and structures to my paintings. This makes my paintings more and more interesting.”

Do you have experience with horses and/or the sport of polo?

“My mother rode horses when she was younger, but she restricted me from riding because she was afraid that I would fall off and get hurt so I sadly never learned to ride. Nevertheless, many of my clients are avid equestrians and horse lovers, and I have attended many equestrian competitions and events across Europe. It is 13

impressive to see the elegance, power and control of the horses - exactly the elements that I try to capture in my paintings.”

How did your relationship with James and Misdee develop?

“I first met James and Misdee when one of the galleries that I am associated with organized an art dinner, and my artwork was showcased to the attendees.

James and Misdee attended and we were introduced, and before the end of the night had purchased several of my paintings. They have become real fans and ambassadors of my artwork, and I am grateful to have met them and become friends with them!”

This summer, Misdee received a gift from you that she fell in love with.

What is significant about that work?

“I was commissioned by Driving Valkenswaard International, a combined driving competition that Misdee was competing at, to create artwork to give away to a select few of their sponsors and guests. Misdee was the lucky recipient of one of the pieces - a beautiful swan. When creating this particular piece, I wanted to make something different than the pieces that I have done before.

But I wanted it to include the same appearance and strengths. A swan is powerful, protective and graceful - like my portraits. Misdee fell in love with the piece because the Hillcroft Farm crest that she competes under, which has been passed down through the generations of her family, includes three swans. It was very fitting that she was the recipient of this very unique piece.”

What do you love most about being a professional artist?

“For me, being an artist is not a job; it is a way of living. It is very exciting to see other people fall in love with my artwork. My dream has come true, as I have now become an artist whose artwork is sold all around the world.”

savor

THE FLAVORS OF OUR AREA’S LOCALLY-OWNED RESTAURANTS

Years

Discover the Best Local Eating and Drinking on the Suncoast ANNA MARIA ISLAND Beach House Waterfront Restaurant Blue Marlin Seafood Gulf Drive Café and Kokonut Hut Sandbar Seafood & Spirits The Waterfront Restaurant on Anna Maria

AD

BRADENTON The Breakfast Company Icon Eatery & Bar Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille Mean Deans Local Kitchen Michael John’s PIER 22 Restaurant • Patio • Catering DOWNTOWN SARASOTA 1592 Wood Fired Kitchen & Cocktails Amore Restaurant Bevardi’s Salute! Restaurant Bijou Garden Café Brewster’s Tavern Brick’s Smoked Meats Clasico Italian Chophouse Drunken Poet Café Duval’s Fresh. Local. Seafood.

El Melvin Cocina Mexicana element: steak.seafood.pasta Flavio’s On Main Jack Dusty Kojo MADE Restaurant Mattison’s City Grille méLange Overture Restaurant & Gallery Lounge Sage State Street Eating House + Cocktails Tsunami Sushi & Hibachi

April 19-24, 2023 Tickets on Sale January 19, 2023

LAKEWOOD RANCH & UTC Cassariano Italian Eatery GROVE Restaurant • Patio • Ballroom JPAN Sushi & Grill - UTC mi Pueblo El Restaurante Mexicano & Cantina - University

LONGBOAT KEY Euphemia Haye Harry’s Continental Kitchens Mar Vista Dockside Restaurant & Pub PALMETTO Riverhouse Waterfront Restaurant SARASOTA JPAN Restaurant at Siesta Row Mattison’s Forty-One mi Pueblo El Restaurante Mexicano - Bee Ridge Michael’s On East The Original Egg Pacific Rim Reef Cakes Reyna’s Taqueria Roessler’s Restaurant Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse SIESTA KEY Café Gabbiano Lobster Pot Miguel’s Restaurant Ophelia’s On The Bay Village Café ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE Le Colonne Restaurant VENICE / NOKOMIS Café Venice Restaurant & Bar Cassariano Italian Eatery The Crow’s Nest Fins at Sharky’s Gold Rush BBQ mi Pueblo El Restaurante Mexicano & Cantina - Venice Paradise Grill Pop’s Sunset Grill VILLAGE OF THE ARTS BRADENTON Birdrock Taco Shack Ortygia Restaurant

eatlikealocal.com

The financial institution you’ve been waiting for is here!

Join today and enjoy the GTE Difference > Account benefits for the whole family > Lending with great rates & rewards > Home, Auto, Credit Cards, Commercial > Certified Financial Advisors > Insurance Services 7375 University Parkway Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-308-4794 Federally Insured by NCUA |

The Sarasota Polo Club Salutes Championship Sponsors

CRUISEEPLANNERSEMARCEBOKOFFE CRUISEEPLANNERSEMARCEBOKOFFE marc@bookthatescape.com marc@bookthatescape.com www.bookthatescape.com/srqluxurytravel www.bookthatescape.com/srqluxurytravel Telephone:844-768-2799 Telephone:844-768-2799

WRIGLEY MEDIA GROUP ®

Polo: a Sport That’s Good For Business!

• A.E. Engine Media + Marketing • Aksala Wealth Advisors • Bloom Business Jets • Brain Health Initiative • Caldwell Trust • Carie Bradshaw • Celebrity Cruise Lines/ Cruise Planners • Cellustrious • Channell Real Estate • Children’s Cancer Center • Clive Daniel • Dimmitt Auto. Group • DutchCrafters

• Eat Like a Local • Edwards Jones • Elite Infusion IV Hydration • Elite Medical Spa • EQUUS TV • Exit King Realty • Fifth Third Private Bank • Fuller Group -- Bo Fuller • Gold Coast Eagle Distributing • Grapevine Communications • Grove – Pier 22 • GTE Financial • Incrediblebank

• Investus Realty • J.P. Morgan Private Bank • Jefferson’s Ocean • John Cannon Homes • Joy Pederson • Lakewood Ranch Moms Group • LakewoodRanch.com • Lee Wetherington Homes • Maduro Cigars • Main Street at Lakewood Ranch • Matter Brothers • Mauldin & Jenkins • McCarver & Moser

• Merrill Lynch -- Adamchak, Lavezzoli & Associates • Merrill Lynch – The Franz Wealth Management Group • Minuteman Press of Bradenton • Mosquito Mist • Move Like a Rider • Music Compound • Mya & Ava Medford • North South Wealth Mgmt.

• Observer Media Group • OneGroup Wealth • Pandora Store, University Town Center

sarasota asotapolo polo22002233 sar

||

2 16

• Parkinson Place • PECKY Interiors • Pineapple Kitchen • Planet Stone • Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP • Preferred Shore Real Estate • Prestige Planning • Ranch Capital Advisors • Raymond James • Remi J. Lange • Sarasota Equine • Sirius Day Spa, Salon & MedSpas

• SpeedPro Imaging • TerraNova Equestrian Center • The Don CeSar • The Hedge Team -Premier Sotheby’s Realty • The Out of Door Academy • The Players Centre • University Park Country Club • Waterside at Lakewood Ranch • Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming • Wrigley Media Group

Our Season of 2023 Sponsors Presenting Sponsors

2023 Sponsors

communications

Your Jeweler for Life.

SA RA SOTA E Q U I N E VETERINARY SERVICES

3 17

Learn the Polo Basics

A viewer’s guide to one of the fastest growing sports The 2,500-year-old sport of polo is one of the fastest and most technical sports played today. It is gaining increasing popularity as a premier spectator sport and can be an easy game for the first-time spectator to enjoy. Here are a few basic facts to help you watch the game: GAME BASICS The sport of polo is played on a 10-acre grass field that is 300 yards in length by 160 yards in width - the approximate area of 10 football fields. The goal posts are set eight yards apart on either end of the field. The object of the game is to move the ball downfield, hitting the ball through the goal posts for a score. After each goal, the teams change their direction of play. The team that ends up with the most goals at the end of the match is deemed the winner.

Each team is made up of four players each and are designated on the field by jersey color. The jersey number corresponds with their assigned position. #1 is the most offensive player, concentrating on scoring. Usually, the most experienced and highest-rated players wear jerseys #2 and #3. #3 serves as the team captain and is responsible for coordinating the offense, passing the ball upfield to his or her sar asota polo

202 3

|

18

teammates as they press towards their opposition’s goal. #4 is the defensive player, primarily responsible for defending his or her team’s goal. Each player is also assigned an opponent to cover on defense and must be prepared to shift between offensive and defensive modes at any time.

The mallet, made of a bamboo shaft with a hardwood head, is the instrument that the player uses to hit the ball. The ball, formerly made of wood but is now plastic, is about 3 1/4 inches in diameter and 4 ounces in weight. In fact, the English word “polo” is derived from the Tibetan word “pulu,” meaning ball.

The surface of a polo field requires careful and constant grounds maintenance in order to remain in good playing condition. During halftime of a match, spectators are invited to assist with field maintenance by participating in a polo tradition called “divot stomping,” which helps reduce the mounds of earth (divots) that are torn up by the horses’ hooves during the match.

It also provides spectators with the opportunity to walk about and socialize.

There are six periods, or “chukkers,” in a match. Each chukker is seven and a half minutes long. Play begins with an umpire throwing in the ball at the opening of each chukker and after each goal. Only penalties, injuries or time allotted for tack repair may stop the flow of the game, as there are no timeouts or substitutions allowed.

The four basic shots in polo are distinguished by the side of the pony on which they are made. The left side of the pony is known as the “nearside” and the right side is known as the “offside.” Therefore, you have the “nearside forward,” the “nearside back,” the “offside forward,” and the “offside back.” Shots can also be made under the pony’s neck (“neck shot”), behind the pony’s tail (“tail shot”), or under the belly of the pony (“belly shot”).

Call Us Now

(941) 961-3100 Mention “Sarasota Polo” to receive a premium listing rate

Live A Fuller Life

EXCEPTIONAL REAL ESTATE IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Fuller Group

Keller Williams On The Water Sarasota 1549 Ringling Blvd, 6th Floor Sarasota, FL 34236

w: BoFuller.com

William “Bo” Fuller, Jr., MHA REALTOR®/Broker Associate FL/NC/SC/GA

m: 941-961-3100

SCAN HERE

TO VIEW OUR WEBSITE

@thefullerproperties

BENEFITING THE

THE RULES Although there are many rules to the sport of polo, the primary concept to which all rules are dedicated is safety – for the player and his or her mount.

The right-of-way rule is defined by a player’s position in relation to the direction of travel of the ball when it is hit. Once hit, an imaginary line is drawn from the player to the ball, and extended ahead of the ball in the direction that it is traveling. This imaginary line cannot be crossed by other players except under special circumstances and only in such a way as to legitimately gain control of the ball. When a player has the line of the ball on his right, he has the rightof-way. This can only be taken away by “riding off ” (making shoulderto-shoulder contact) and moving the player off the line of the ball.

These rules help create safe traffic patterns that enable the participants to play at top speeds and avoid dangerous collisions.

THE HANDICAPS Each player is assigned an individual handicap on the ascending basis of C, B, A (-2 through 0) and 1 through 10. This handicap reflects the player’s ability and his or her value to the team. The higher the handicap, the better the player. There are only a few 10-Goal players in the world.

The team handicap is determined by adding together the handicaps of each player on the team. The team with the lesser handicap is granted the difference in goals (or points) prior to the start of the match. For that reason, a match may well have a “score” prior to the start of the game based on the difference in team handicaps.

Player handicaps are evaluated and revised annually by the United States Polo Association (USPA). Handicapping is a subjective evaluation of the individual’s horsepower, game sense, hitting ability, and overall value to a team.

THE PONIES Polo ponies are central to the success of any team. They are considered the most athletic of equine performers because of their requirements to sprint, stop, turn and accelerate to open speed. Although they are called “ponies,” they are actually small horses, as they average in height from 15 to 16 hands (1 Hand = 4 Inches). Players change mounts between each chukker, and will also sometimes change horses mid-chukker if they feel their horse getting tired from the exertion required. Because of this, a team typically has a minimum of 24 horses available to them during the match. sar asota polo

202 3

|

20

Invite a fresh, sophisticated, and serene feel to your space with our Breeze Collection by Theodore Alexander. Our dining table features wire-brushed pine and is seen here with an hourglass double pedestal base with a vibrant sunburst veneer pattern. The upholstered armchairs offer an incredibly comfortable seating experience sure to help you bring your Florida lifestyle home. Be sure to visit our Complimentary Design Center to help make your home uniquely yours. matterbrothersfurniture.com

FORT MYERS

●

NAPLES

●

PINELLAS PARK

●

SARASOTA

●

TARPON SPRINGS

Polopedia Basic Definitions to add to Your Polo Watching Enjoyment Back Shot: A shot that sends the ball backwards which can be hit from either side of the horse.

Chukker: “Periods” in polo. Depending on the level of play, there are either 4 or 6 chukkers per match. Between each chukker, players change horses.

Divot Stomping: During halftime, spectators are invited to go onto the playing field to replace pieces of turf that have been dug up by the horses.

Double-Chukkered: Used to describe a horse that has been approved to play again in a later chukker.

Field: 300 yards long and 160 yards wide (10 acres).

Goal: Occurs when the ball crosses over the endline and between the goal posts.

There is no height limit as to how high the ball can travel, so long as it travels between the goal posts.

Goal Post: Roughly 10 feet tall and set 8 yards apart at the center of each end zone, they are collapsible upon impact. They have a foam core and are covered with a heavy-duty vinyl.

Handicap: USPA-registered players are rated on a scale of -2 through 10 (the higher the better). -2 through 1-Goal players can go up in half-point increments.

Hook: An extremely effective defense technique where a player uses the mallet to interfere with an opponent’s swing.

Knock-In: Should a team, in an offensive drive, hit the ball across the opponents’ backline, the defending team resumes the game with a free hit from the backline.

Line-of-the-Ball or Right-of-Way: This imaginary line follows the path that the ball takes. On each side of this line is a lane, and these two lanes determine the right-ofway of the player in possession of the ball.

Nearside Shot: A shot, either forehand or backhand, made from the left side of the horse.

Neck Shot: A shot hit from either side of the horse that sends the ball under a horse’s neck.

Offside Shot: The most commonly-used shot in polo, where the ball is hit from the right side of the horse.

Penalty: A free hit towards the goal.

The severity of the foul committed determines what penalty will be awarded.

Penalty 1: An automatic goal awarded when a player commits a dangerous foul in the vicinity of the goal.

Penalty 2: Hit from a centered 30-yard line nearest the fouling team’s goal, or from the spot where the foul occurred.

Penalty 3: Hit from a centered 40-yard line nearest the fouling team’s goal.

Penalty 4: Hit from a centered 60-yard line nearest the fouling team’s goal.

Penalty 5(a): Hit from the spot where the ball was when the foul occurred.

Penalty 5(b): Hit from the center of the field.

Penalty 6 (Safety): When a player hits the ball over their own end line, the opposing team receives a hit 60 yards out.

Positions: Each of the four team members play a distinctly different role.

Players may momentarily swap positions, but they try to stay in their assigned position. sar asota polo

202 3

|

22

No. 1 is the most forward offensive player. No. 2 is just as aggressive, but plays deeper. No. 3 is the pivot between offense and defense and tries to turn all plays to offense. No. 4, or the back, is the defensive player whose principle role is to protect the goal.

Red Card: Issued when a player accumulates multiple yellow cards, and results in suspension from the remainder of the game and no substitution for the next two minutes of game time.

Ride-Off: Occurs when two riders attempt to push each other off the line of the ball.

Tail Shot: A shot that involves hitting the ball behind and under the horse’s rump.

Third Man: The third referee who sits off the field. If and when the two umpires on the field are in disagreement, the third man breaks the tie and makes the final decision.

Throw-In: At the start of a chukker or after a goal is scored, players line up at midfield and an umpire will throw the ball down the line made by the two ready teams.

Umpires: Responsible for recognizing infringements and imposing penalties, and also monitoring the safety of the game for the players and the horses, these two individuals are mounted and on the field during play.

Yellow Card: Issued when a player displays unsportsmanlike conduct. The first offense in a game results in a penalty.

A second offense in a game results in the player sitting out for two minutes of play with no substitute. A third offense in a game could result in a red card.

Experience Art, WHEN CONSISTENCY TAKES THE REINS.

Repetition, attention to detail and absolute precision create

skilled athletes in any sport. These same principles apply to the forward-thinking team at Lee Wetherington Homes, and our

experience constructing incomparable homes for thousands of

discerning customers on the Suncoast. What sets us apart is our

“consistency” with each build – the mastery of the fundamentals of what makes an elegant custom home last a lifetime. This is the foundation for innovative art, an unrivaled home that mirrors your vision.

941-922-3480 | LWHomes.com

CLEARWATER 25191 US HWY 19N CLEARWATER, FL

ST. PETERSBURG 3333 GANDY BLVD PINELLAS PARK, FL

WESLEY WESLEY CHAPEL CHAPEL 2500 2500 LAJUANA LAJUANA BLVD BLVD WESLEY WESLEY CHAPEL, CHAPEL, FL FL

THE SARASOTA STUDIO 1518 STATE STREET SARASOTA, FL

LEARN MORE DIMMITT.COM

Tools OF THE Trade

The rules for equipment vary in details between the hosting authorities, but are always for the safety of the players and their mounts.

Polo, also known as the “sport of kings,” is a pastime that demands a kit to match. A polo player’s equipment is very important not only for safety, comfort and performance, but also to demonstrate the right attitude towards playing the game.

sar asota polo

202 3

|

26

Polo Knee Pads

Protective Helmet

Knee pads are an essential part of the kit, with a player’s legs very exposed to the rigors of the match in the saddle. Different players may favor different variations of polo knee pads, including either two or three straps (the third helping to further secure the pad if necessary).

Polo was once a form of training for cavalry a mentality that is easy to understand when you dress for a polo match today, with its own special protective equipment. Most important in this regard is the helmet, to insure the player against any glancing blows from the polo ball, stray mallets and other potential hazards of the sport. When choosing a helmet, it is mandatory that you select a product that has been approved by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOSCAE).

Polo Balls

Saddles Saddles are English-style with deep seats, like jumping saddles.

Different playing conditions can require different polo balls, so it’s best to consider which best suits your circumstances. In situations where weather conditions limit visibility, red balls can ensure a match goes ahead.

The standard ball for outdoor polo is made of plastic, measures about 3 to 3 ½ inches in diameter, and weights about 4 ounces.

Polo Bags

Regulation Spurs

Bags help carry each player’s equipment, including their boots, knee pads, gloves, helmet, spurs, and more.

Pair solid boots with some reliable spurs, preferably stainless steel, to help direct your mount to move forward or laterally as needed.

Polo Mallets At the business end of your polo game, the polo mallet needs the right specification for you. The weight of the mallet head and the length of the stick are both customizable to ensure this instrument suits the height of the pony, as well as the rider’s playing style. The mallet has a rubber-wrapped grip with a webbed thong for wrapping around the hand. It also has a flexible bamboo-cane shaft with a bamboo head 9 ½ inches in length. The entire mallet weighs around 7 ounces and varies in length from 48 to 53 inches, depending on the size of the pony and the length of the player’s arm. The ball is struck with the side of the mallet, not the end.

27

Polo Boots For the same reasons that knee pads are essential to a polo player’s safety during a match, top quality riding boots are a must. Ideally, these made-for-polo boots should be thick, high quality leather with a good sole and ankle support.

Polo Gloves The best modern polo wear is designed not just for protection, but also comfort and challenging conditions. Good quality gloves can offer extra grip in slippery conditions and low temperatures, meaning a good pair can be the difference between success and failure in the key moments of a match.

People of Polo

of P O PLE O

LO

Owners, Cruise Planners

PE

Marc & Roz Bokoff

By Brian McLaughlin CRUISEEPLANNERSSMARCCBOKOFFF marc@bookthatescape.com www.bookthatescape.com/srqluxurytravel Telephone:844-768-2799

arc Bokoff’s first experience around horses came as a young boy – but not the way you might expect.

“Neither of us (Marc nor his wife Roz) are horse people.

We just did not grow up around them,” Marc said. “But when I was young, I attended summer camp, and part of our responsibilities involved cleaning the stables. At the end of the camp session, they gave out an award - called the Golden Shovel Award - for doing the best job. And I won that award.”

Marc and his wife Roz have come a long way from those camp days. Marc started his travel business in 1988 in Connecticut and has grown it to a presence in Lakewood Ranch, where he and Roz moved in 2019. The couple is part of the Cruise Planners network and are independent owners of their travel business.

You might wonder how their involvement with polo began, especially for two individuals who had very little connection with either polo or horses - besides the childhood Golden Shovel Award, of course.

“We were looking for avenues to participate more in our community, and to expose our business to more people,” says Marc. “We heard about the Sarasota Polo Club and thought that the type of people who like polo are the same type of people who like to have fun and who enjoy travel. So, we began talking with the Sarasota Polo Club about a variety of opportunities.”

During their discussions with the Sarasota Polo Club in 2021, the couple learned that Celebrity Cruise Lines is a passionate supporter of polo. sar asota polo

202 3

|

28

“When we heard about Celebrity and their involvement in polo, we reached out to them,” Marc said. “They said they would absolutely love to be a part of anything we did here in Sarasota.”

That enthusiasm led to the decision to team up with Celebrity Cruise Lines to partner with the Sarasota Polo Club for the 2022 Season. “The experience was so positive for Celebrity Cruises and for us, that we agreed that we wanted to be the Title Sponsor of the 2023 Season of Sarasota Polo,” Marc noted.

While their initial contact with the sport of polo was business-related, Marc and Roz found that they really enjoy the sport’s experience on a more personal level.

“It’s a fun day for a family, a couple, friends, or even for a business to host clients,” Roz said. “We really didn’t know what to expect the first time we attended Sunday Polo, but we fell in love with the experience and have been inviting other people to join us ever since.”

Thanks to this partnership, one thing that is already on the agenda for July of 2024 is a special ‘Sarasota Polo @ Sea’ cruise, which will be marketed to the Sarasota Polo Club audience throughout the 2023 Season. Attendees will fly into Seattle, Washington and embark on a sevennight cruise to Alaska on the Celebrity Edge, the namesake of Celebrity’s newest ship series. The itinerary will be chock full of unique experiences in Alaska.

The Bokoffs see it like this: The crowd that enjoys Sarasota Polo is perfect for the vibe on a Celebrity cruise. They’re casual, have good taste, are energetic and fun, and they love socializing and having a good time. It’s the kind of crowd that would enjoy cruising together along with some of Sarasota Polo’s players and personalities.

Working closely with Celebrity Cruises, this will be a special can’t-miss Sarasota Polo cruise experience with invitation-only events.

“When you get to a certain age, you realize that you have accumulated a lot of stuff. What people begin to really want is experiences that leave a lasting impression,” Marc said.

A unique, fun-packed cruise and a fabulous day at the Sarasota Polo Club are two of those kinds of experiences.

of P O PLE O

LO

Patricia & Peter Estes

PE

People of Polo Owners, PECKY

By Brian McLaughlin

atricia Estes doesn’t just love the polo experience; she and her husband, Peter, are a major reason why the newly-renovated Member’s Clubhouse at the Sarasota Polo Club looks the way that it does today.

The opportunity to partner with the Sarasota Polo Club came through the Estes’ long-time friendship with Sarasota Polo Club owners James and Misdee Miller.

The two couples first met roughly 15 years ago, when the Estes’ moved into the same condominium complex as the Miller’s. From there, the friendship blossomed.

When the Miller’s purchased the Sarasota Polo Club in 2018, they invited the Estes’ out to experience their first Sunday Polo and all of its atmosphere. The Sarasota Polo Club worked its magic on them, as it does for just about every spectator that attends their first Sunday Polo match.

29

“I find it hard to believe that anyone would not have a passion for both polo and horses after going out to the Sarasota Polo Club for just one time,” Patricia says. “It is always a great, friendly atmosphere, and everyone is very welcoming.”

Many people come away in awe after their first experience at the Sarasota Polo Club, and vow to come again. The Estes’ are no different.

They now are frequent f liers at Sunday Polo.

Their continued support of the Sarasota Polo Club, and their friendship with the Miller’s, helped them land a role in the renovation of the Member’s Clubhouse, as the Estes’ own Sarasota-based PECKY. While this was not the first time that PECKY had been involved with projects at the Sarasota Polo Club, this was by far their largest undertaking.

“We did a complete renovation of the interior,” Patricia said. “We upgraded the bathrooms, we designed an entirely new bar, we upgraded the f looring and the ceiling, and we changed the layout of the interior to create a more open f loor plan.

We also installed windows along the entire side of the building that faces the Championship Field.

The view for watching polo is now spectacular.”

There is no question in Patricia’s mind that, for those who have not experienced the Sarasota Polo Club grounds before, this is now the place to be. Once guests have the opportunity to experience a party in this new building, they will without a doubt want to return.

“It will make for an absolutely remarkable day,” Patricia said.

of P O PLE O

LO

Jacqueline Taylor

PE

People of Polo

Creative Director, Equus Television Network

By Brian McLaughlin

acqueline Taylor has her dream job, there is no other way to describe it. She was first exposed to the equine industry growing up in northern Alabama, where she had the opportunity to ride young Quarter Horses. When she was in high school, her family moved to Palm Beach County, Florida - a hotspot for all things equestrian.

While her hometown changed, there was zero change in her passion for the beautiful animal that she would later devote her life to broadcasting for all of the world to see. That passion is what has helped drive her success. In 2020, Jacqueline and her family introduced their equestrian-centered TV Network, named Equus TV, which covers all equestrian disciplines from polo to show jumping, and even features the Breeders’ Cup! “I have always dreamed about having a career that allows me to be around horses,” Taylor said. “But I never even thought about working with horses in this unique way. I now have the opportunity to do what I love, while filming it and allowing my creative side show.”

Because of her career, Taylor has had the opportunity to travel to many different places, including the Sarasota Polo Club. She fell in love with the atmosphere and the enthusiasm of the crowd that make the Sarasota Polo Club the unique space that it is.

“You can go have cocktails and watch the polo match. People bring their kids, families, and colleagues. The Sarasota Polo Club really has something for everybody.”

While Sunday Polo is a blast for Taylor, she arrives at each event with a strategy while still having as much fun as she can. sar asota polo

202 3

|

30

“A day at the Sarasota Polo Club is a mixture of tailgating and networking with a breathtaking featured event – the polo match – at the center of it all,” Taylor explains. “My job is to capture the essence of the entire event, not just the incredible polo action that occurs on the field.”

Before the polo match begins, Taylor first decides where she wants to set up camp for the day. Like anyone doing camera work at a sporting event, she looks for the best angles that will allow her to capture the action which is not exactly an easy feat considering the size of the polo field.

“The field is so big and exhilarating,” Taylor said.

Once Taylor gets set up, she begins shooting pre-match footage, capturing the personalities and atmosphere of the Sarasota Polo Club. She also makes time to stop by the trailers to get footage of the horses and players getting ready for the match. Then, when the action starts, she does not leave her camera until the match is over!

“I am working the entire time, but it is really exciting and fun,” Taylor said. “The Sarasota Polo Club has such an amazing community feel to it. The Sarasota Polo Club has really provided a unique venue where people can connect with each other, as well as the players and horses, and have an absolute blast doing it.”

Taylor loves having the opportunity to tell – and show – that story.

“I think horses can teach you a lot. If you have never been around a horse, I highly recommend it because it is an experience that you can simply not put into words.

And the Sarasota Polo Club is a great place to have that experience.”

THE RANCH FIND YOUR PLACE ON

The #1 Community in the U.S. For All Ages - 5 Years Running!

Covering more than 50 square miles, Lakewood Ranch is filled with shopping, dining and arts, entertainment, nature recreation - and all the new home choices you can imagine. With over 20+ villages, each with distinctive homes and amenities, we have something for every size family and every stage of life.

AWARD-WINNING LIFESTYLE | YEAR-ROUND FARMERS’ MARKET | GOLF & RACQUET SPORTS | 300+ SHOPPING & DINING OPTIONS | SARASOTA POLO CLUB

NEW HOMES FROM THE $300S TO OVER $1 MILLION *

*Prices subject to change without notice. © 2022 Lakewood Ranch

.com

People of Polo

of P O PLE O

LO

Owner, Centaur Physical Therapy

PE

Dr. Tonya Olson

By Brian McLaughlin

f you have never met Dr. Tonya Olson, owner of Centaur Physical Therapy, you will be amazed at the level of passion that she has for horses. She is hardly alone when it comes to her love of this precious animal, but she is about as dedicated to it as anyone you will ever meet.

That passion for horses began when she was only two years old in her hometown of Portland, Oregon and has yet to expire. She has moved many times throughout her life, but one constant has been her involvement with horses.

While living in Charleston, South Carolina, she was offered the unique opportunity to work as a horse carriage tour guide for the historic district.

While this was a much different job than she had ever worked before, she enjoyed it immensely and excelled at it. It was through that experience, and the people that she met while driving carriages, that she received her first exposure to the sport of polo.

Once she finished schooling and became a Physical Therapist, she spent time working on the west coast of the country before being offered a job on the west coast of Florida. When she got settled in her new home of St. Petersburg, she started searching for ways to keep her equestrian passion afire. That is when she stumbled upon the Sarasota Polo Club.

Not only did she like the Sarasota Polo Club, she fell in love - not just from the standpoint of its involvement with horses, but also with the entire environment.

Sure, there is a chance for her to network professionally, but that is not the real sar asota polo

202 3

|

32

reason why the Sarasota Polo Club draws Dr. Olson. The community aspect, where people from all backgrounds are enjoying the same experience, is what fires her up.

“The people who show up at the Sarasota Polo Club grounds already have a lot in common,” Olson said. “The experience is what you want it to be. You can pay attention to the polo match and be super into the action, or you can go and not watch every second of the match but still have an amazing time. Or, you can go and do a little of both!”

That is why she would rather not be anywhere but the Sarasota Polo Club when season is in session.

Dr. Olson believes that the experience of being around horses - whether you are a rider or a spectator - is truly life changing.

Inspired by her time spent at the Sarasota Polo Club, Dr. Olson founded Move Like A Rider, where she teaches riders how to communicate more clearly with their horses through improved body awareness. This endeavor has been extremely well-received by the community.

“Move Like A Rider is a project I have been working on for over a year now,” Olson said.

“It is finally to the point where I have enough to offer that I can handle greater publicity. I am proud of how the program has grown in just a short period of time.”

For Dr. Olson, the equine experience is a spiritual one, and she credits it for her successes in life.

“I would rather be around horses than anything - or anybody - and I love that I have the opportunity to work alongside them while helping people at the same time,” Olson said.

Scan here to learn more about move like a rider

FOR ALL YOUR AESTHETIC NEEDS: • Botox® and Xeomin® to reduce fine lines and wrinkles • Facial and body fillers - Add shape, definition, and volume • Liquid Facelift - Non-surgical facial rejuvenation • Body Contouring by Emsculpt NEO® • IPL Photo Facial to repair aging and damaged skin • O-Shot® and P-Shot® for sexual health Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch • Skin rejuvenation with Morpheus8 EliteMedicalSpa.com • Laser Hair Removal for silky smooth skin without shaving 941.203.5111 • MINT PDO Threads for tighter skin and non-surgical facelift

of P O PLE O

LO

Trey Zoeller

PE

People of Polo

By Dan Guttenplan

cclaimed whiskey maker Trey Zoeller didn’t know that he was being groomed as a potential the Sarasota Polo Club back in 2015.

His friend, Brent Hamill, invited him to Lakewood Ranch to spectate on the sidelines of matches at the Sarasota Polo Club, and Zoeller did “I didn’t really watch very closely,” Zoeller said. “I had a couple of cocktails and simply had a great time.”

After the polo match, Hamill and current Sarasota Polo Club owner James Miller (who was just a playing member at the Sarasota Polo Club at the time) took Zoeller back to Hamill’s polo barn, and the two polo enthusiasts continued to push Zoeller to take an interest in the sport.

“They were teaching me the ins and outs of polo,” Zoeller said. “I thought it sounded ridiculous. But, before I knew it, they called one of the professionals based out of the Sarasota Polo Club and arranged for me to go take a lesson.”

Although Zoeller had some equestrian experience in the form of trail a horse. But, fortunately for him, that part came naturally - at least according to his instructor.

202 3

|

bow of a ship. The caramelizing of the sugars in the barrel combined with the constant motion of the ship resulted in a dark bourbon that has a briny, savory taste aged beyond its years.

“I started this process 25 years ago at a time when I couldn’t give bourbon away,” Zoeller said. “I grew up in Kentucky where everybody drinks bourbon. It’s a way of life. It wasn’t until I moved to half a dozen other places around the country when I realized that not too many people outside of Kentucky were drinking bourbon. ourselves in all 50 states.”

impressed. He had told me that nobody picks up hitting the ball around that sar asota polo

with his father, Chet, back in 1997, became more and more addicted to the sport while playing at his hometown club - Louisville Polo Club. Before long, he ended up with a few polo ponies of his own and was able to get his handicap raised to 0 Goals.

“It’s one of the few times in my life that I did not think about anything else,” Zoeller said. “I’m not a very accomplished rider. In the beginning, I was just concerned about staying on the horse. Then, I fell in love with the rush of hitting the ball perfectly at a good rate of speed.”

Zoeller has moved a couple of horses down to the Sarasota Polo Club for the winter season so that he can continue to play polo while visiting his friends Hamill and Miller.

In addition to his growing love for the sport of polo, he has discovered that he has developed a strong connection with his horses.

“I love to get out of the truck and be around my horses,” Zoeller said. “It takes me away from thinking about what happened at work or other things in my life that cause stress. The barn is my happy place. When I started playing polo, I didn’t know anything about horses. But I fell in love with learning each of their individual personalities and temperaments.”

Zoeller’s zest for new experiences has also been an asset in his professional life.

In recent years, he invented the process of aging bourbon at sea by testing the process

34

jeffersonsbourbon.com

Aged at the Mercy of the Sea PLEASE SIP RESPONSIBLY. ©2023 Jefferson’s Bourbon Company, Crestwood, KY

JEFFERSONSBOURBON.COM

What is That?

KEY TERMS & DEFINITIONS

A. Bandages

d. Breast Plate

G. saddle

Protective wrapping that shields the ponies’ legs against contact with the ball.

Stops the saddle from slipping back.

b. Boots

This series of leather starrings and supports gives the player steering and stopping control.

A polo player’s seat during the game. It is kept stable by a girth that fits around the stomach of the horse.

Oftentimes placed on top of bandages on the front legs for further protection.

c. Braided Tail Prevents interference with the mallet.

E. Bridle F. Horseshoe Designed to enhance a horse’s hooves through additional cushion and protection, as well as prevent the hooves from wearing down too quickly. sar asota polo

202 3

|

36

H. stirrup Holds the foot of the rider, and is attached to the saddle by a strap known as the stirrup leather.

I. Reins & draw reins To enhance control of the pony.

Extreme

MAKEOVER

Clubhouse Edition

By Abby Weingarten

Evolving from a western, ranch-style space to a more contemporary, upscale retreat, the Sarasota Polo Club Member’s Clubhouse has recently undergone a bona fide makeover.

To improve the view of the polo field and the overarching experience for Sunday Polo matches, the new design of the Clubhouse utilizes modern glass walls, new bathrooms with additional capacity, and a catering kitchen that can serve anywhere from 50 to 250 guests. There is a new, more defined entrance and entry room with a reception desk and trophy display. There are also plans to add a motor pool so that valet services can be offered.

“These upgrades give us the ability to better host larger groups of both members and guests, as we have added seating areas and improved the flow of people inside the building,” Sarasota Polo Club owner James Miller says.

Kyle Mills, a project manager for Dean Builds, collaborated on the design, and also hired Morris Workshop Architects from Kentucky to help.

“It is undoubtedly a huge upgrade from the previous Clubhouse,” says Mills. “In my opinion,

sar asota polo

202 3

|

the sliding glass exterior patio doors and the interior partition make the biggest architectural impact on the building because they allow for flexibility. The former allows you to easily access the outside patio from the inside and vice versa, and the size and look help frame expansive views of the polo fields to the East, North and West.

The interior sliding partition panels separate the smaller Mallet Room from the main room (now known as the Field Room), but can also be left open depending on the nature of the event.”

There is also a “wow” factor in the colors, textures, cabinets and fixtures throughout the space—from the bathroom details (enclosed stalls, hands-free sinks and sconce lights) to the general look of the Field Room. Alissa Sullivan, an interior designer for PECKY, said the rich blue colors, Ralph Lauren light fixtures, and classic board and batten wainscoting were used in the Clubhouse to pay homage to classic equestrian style. The restroom floor plans were reworked to provide more facilities for busy polo match days.

And all of the finishes were updated in unique pallets for each room.

38

39

located in the north west corner of the building, which can be closed off either for private dining or a small group meeting space. For me, another one of the biggest highlights is one that will not be seen by most members but will still be a huge asset - a catering kitchen. This will become invaluable as we continue to expand the Sarasota Polo Club’s dining options.”

Revamping the Clubhouse is part of a bigger picture. It is just one of the many improvements that the Miller’s are planning to bring to the Sarasota Polo Club in order to accommodate the burgeoning membership.

“James and I are constantly looking for ways to improve and enhance our members’ experience, and the Clubhouse is central to that,” Misdee says. “It is a versatile event spot, especially with the addition of the new outdoor patio bar. We are looking to add more special events for members now that we have such a unique space to hold them in.”

The location of the Clubhouse on the

“The new Clubhouse reflects the evolution of the Sarasota Polo Club as a whole. The previous Clubhouse was a reflection of the origins of the club, with both its look and feel,” says Misdee Miller, an avid equestrian who coowns the Sarasota Polo Club with her husband, James. “As Lakewood Ranch has grown and developed into a more contemporary and upscale community, James and I felt that the Clubhouse should reflect those changes.”

When it came time to make those changes, James had a clear vision of what he was looking for in the new Clubhouse design. As PECKY, a Sarasota-based interior design company, implemented that vision, Misdee served as the sounding board.

“The biggest highlight of the Clubhouse is the new bar. It is incredible how an entire wall - once occupied by an enormous fireplace - is now a very contemporary bar with great seating and large televisions,” Misdee says. “Another highlight is the Mallet Room—a dining area sar asota polo

202 3

|

40

Clubhouse was built more than 20 years ago, at a time when the Sarasota Polo Club was the only development in all of Lakewood Ranch. The Clubhouse has gone from being a centralized building for Sarasota Polo Club members and their families to now becoming our premier entertainment and event center. It was overdue for a makeover.”

Thanks to the vision of James and Misdee, that makeover happened. Phase 1 is officially complete, and plans for Phase 2 are already in the works - which will involve upgrading the patios and gardens surrounding the building.

It is an exciting time at the Sarasota Polo Club, and the Miller’s are looking forward to continuing to improve the facilities for members, players, guests, and spectators. They look forward to seeing you out at the Sarasota Polo Club for the 2023 Season!

property, and the fact that the exterior also got an updated paint job, allows it to become even more of a place of gathering.

“Dean Builds is very proud of this project and we know that the Sarasota Polo Club is excited to show it off this season,” says Mills.

PECKY is also proud to have been a part of this project.

“It is my hope that the revamp will inspire members and patrons to use the amenities at the Sarasota Polo Club more often for polo matches and private events,” Sullivan says.

“The owners’ effort to continue the legacy of the club is what makes it so special. I hope that everyone will be excited to see the updates and enjoy the new space.”

James Miller agrees.

“We have received overwhelming gratitude for being committed to the Sarasota Polo Club and making the investments into the amenities,” says James. “The previous 41

Presented By

No polo match is complete without our loyal sidekick, the dog.

Some are barn mascots, others are socialites, and often they’re more famous and recognized around the polo circuit than movie stars.

43

presented by

sar asota polo

202 3

|

44

Your News. Your New Way.

Read Print DIGITALLY! NEW APP!

Scan to Watch Video

SHARE Love an article?

Share it with a link.

Get our e-Newspaper on your laptop, smartphone or tablet all in our new, easy-to-use app. Scroll through the pages of the paper on any device, and take us with you, wherever you go.

PRINT Print articles and crosswords.

BOOKMARKS Save articles for future reference.

A READ OFFLINE Download our digital edition on your mobile device and read it anywhere.

LISTEN On-demand narration is available for those who prefer to listen to their newspaper.

Download the Your Observer App

TRANSLATE Our new tool offers instant translation in multiple languages.

SUBSCRIBE NOW!

ONLY 99¢ FIRST MONTH Limited Time Offer

Have questions?

YourObserver.com/Subscribe

21187

Call 941-366-3466, ext. 320 or email: e-newspaper@yourobserver.com

presented by

sar asota polo

202 3

|

46

You step up when it matters most We are proud to support the Sarasota Polo Club.

Adamchak, Lavezzoli & Associates Joseph M. Adamchak, CPFA® Senior Vice President Senior Financial Advisor Portfolio Manager Ryan D. Adamchak, CFP®, SE-AWMA™ Wealth Management Advisor Senior Portfolio Advisor Paul D. Lavezzoli, CFP® Financial Advisor Portfolio Advisor Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 6311 Atrium Drive Suite 100B Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.413.4510 fa.ml.com/abwm

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 Merrill and the Bull logo are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation.

CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S. The College for Financial Planning Institutes Corp. owns the service marks Sports & Entertainment Accredited Wealth Management Advisor℠, SE-AWMA℠ and the SE-AWMA℠ logo, and the certification marks Sports & Entertainment Accredited Wealth Management Advisor™, SE-AWMA™ and the SE-AWMA™ logo.

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. A Senior Portfolio Advisor can help clients pursue their objectives by managing on a discretionary basis custom investment strategies, selecting from a wide range of Merrill model portfolios and third-party investment strategies. A Portfolio Advisor, in addition to providing traditional advice and guidance, can help clients pursue their investment objectives by recommending individual, or any combination of, Merrill or approved third-party investment managers’ strategies, funds or portfolios. © 2022 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

MAP4923103 | AD-11-22-0380 | 470974PM-0922 | 11/2022

presented by

sar asota polo

202 3

|

48

“MONEY WILL NOT MAKE YOU HAPPY, BUT IT WILL ALLOW YOU TO FIND OUT WHAT DOES”

AksAlA.com 6260 lAke osprey Drive, lAkewooD rAnch, Fl 34240 ph: 941.500.5122 Securities offered through Avantax Investment Services SM , Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Avantax Advisory ServicesSM Insurance services offered through an Avantax affiliated insurance agency.

Welcoming The Continental Cup

By Abby Weingarten

In what will be a major coup for Sarasota Polo Club players, the inaugural Florida Circuit 16-Goal Series Championship is coming to Wellington this winter. And one of the tournaments leading up to the final—the Continental Cup—will take place in Sarasota, Florida.

The series, launched by Tournament Committee Chairman Stevie Orthwein, is a collaboration between the United States Polo Association (USPA) and participating south Florida polo clubs.

There are four tournaments in the Florida Circuit 16-Goal Series. The Joe Barry Memorial will play January 3rd through 22nd at Port Mayaca Polo Club. The Ylvisaker Cup will play January 20th through February 12th at the new National Polo Center (NPC) on USPA Field One. The Iglehart Cup will play February 10th through March 5th in Wellington.

And the Continental Cup will play February 26th through March 26th at the Sarasota Polo Club.

Each of the four tournaments will serve as qualifiers, as the winner of each tournament will advance to the championship tournament held April 5th through 9th at NPC. The series offers opportunities for players to transition from low- to medium-goal levels, play at competitive levels outside of high-goal, and test the waters before taking their teams to the high-goal level.

Mark Mulligan, a Sarasota Polo Club homeowner, member and player, will be among the athletes competing.

Mulligan has been playing at the Sarasota Polo Club for 12 years and placing teams in various tournaments for about a decade.

“The plan for this season is to enter my team, Barefield Polo Club, in the 12- and 8-Goal tournaments,” Mulligan says. “We will switch out our 2-Goal player and bring in a different player to bring our sar asota polo

team up to the proper handicap for the Continental Cup.” “I have never competed in a 16-Goal tournament, but I know that the level of play is quite fast and very exciting to watch. I have been looking to up my game and play in higher-level tournaments, and it is great to be able to do it right here at home at the Sarasota Polo Club,” Mulligan says. “I think it is very exciting for the Sarasota Polo Club to get selected to host such a prominent tournament. It really puts Sarasota on the map with the other South Florida polo clubs.”

Club Owner James Miller also intends to enter his team Hillcroft Farm in the tournament.

“I have been campaigning for higher-level polo to be held at the Sarasota Polo Club for quite some time now, and am excited to announce that we are finally able to make it possible this season,” Miller says. This is not only the fun polo to watch as a spectator; it is also the fun polo to play as a player! I hope that the membership is as excited as I am about this tournament.”

The overall goal of the Sarasota Polo Club’s participation in the series is to allow new sponsors, players and organizations to get a firsthand experience of the grounds.

“Being a part of this tournament series is very important to us. Being the lone club on the west coast of Florida, it is important for us to showcase our polo fields, our tournament play and the overall experience that we have to offer here at the Sarasota Polo Club” says Sarasota Polo Club’s Director of Polo Mason Wroe. “We are unique in the amount of community involvement and large Sunday Polo crowds that we are able to draw here in Sarasota. So, for someone wanting to play in front of 3,000-plus people that are cheering for you as you race down the field, the Sarasota Polo Club is your chance.

I feel that we are a diamond in the rough, and there is no better way to have players and teams see that than to have them participate in our tournaments.”

Being involved in this series of tournaments is also important to continue the spread and growth of polo.

“Bringing so many clubs together with all the teams having the common goal to represent themselves and their respective club in the championship is what makes this series of tournaments so unique,” Wroe says. “In recent years, South Florida has seen a resurgence in medium-goal polo and this, in a way, can be the cherry on the top.”

202 3

|

50

2023

SCHEDULE March 16 March 23

Every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. from March 16th to April 6th

March 30

Join the party for the Sunset Polo Happy Hour and Community Concert Series at the Sarasota Polo Club on Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m. from March 16th through April 6th.

Enjoy exciting polo action, tailgating, food, drinks and divot-stomping against a backdrop of a breathtaking sunset. Once the polo action is complete for the evening, stick around and join us for live music!

April 6

Presented by

sar asota polo

202 3

|

52

Join us on Sunday, April 9th, 2023 for the 4th Annual Sarasota Polo Club Easter Eggstravaganza and Halftime Helicopter Egg Drop.

4 T G A NN UA L HELICOPTER

Easter Egg Drop

53

All Aboard the

LONDON BUS

By Abby Weingarten

A

double-decker bus from London, known as “The Hemingway,” has arrived at the Sarasota Polo Club to become the centerpiece for the 2023 Season’s new field-side London Bus Terrace.

It was Sarasota Polo Club owner James Miller’s idea—born during a trip to Windsor Castle at the Royal Windsor Horse Show - to bring a historic London bus from England home to Florida.

“The Royal Windsor Horse Show is one of the most impressive horse shows in the world, and their hospitality and flair is second to none. There are typically two to four London buses of various ages and conversions based at the show every season, and they serve as bars and eateries for the competitors and guests of the competition,” Miller says. “It is a very cool concept, and is one that I have wanted to make possible for the Sarasota Polo Club for quite some time now.”

Last summer, James decided to travel to Chepstow, United Kingdom to view a “graveyard” of about 60 London buses, and that is where he found “The Hemingway.”

“She was built around 1963 and needed quite a bit of restoration work but, after two years, she has finally arrived at the Sarasota Polo Club,” Miller says. “We will have VIP seating on the open-air second level of the bus, complete with champagne bottle service. This is a great romantic date option for a couple. Downstairs, we will have reserved tables and chairs on the lawn out in front of the bus for guests to enjoy the polo match from.”

“The Hemingway” boasts a full interior bar, and cocktails will be served from the flip-up window located on the left side of the bus. Anyone strolling by for a look will have the opportunity to purchase drinks.

“This bus is adorable and vintage. It has had a few updates but it still very much holds its original character,” sar asota polo

202 3

|

54

says Mae Sherk, a regular bartender at the Sarasota Polo Club. “The upstairs deck will provide a great, unique view during the polo matches.”

But it was not so easy getting “The Hemingway” to Sarasota, according to Bryan Zdancewicz, the Director of Maintenance for the Sarasota Polo Club.

“The Hemingway” left England on a cargo ship and arrived at Port Jacksonville mid-summer. While it was supposed to arrive in working order, the first attempt to bring it home to Sarasota failed when it broke down just 30 minutes from Port Jacksonville.

Towing companies refused to transport the bus due to its height, as it was too tall to fit under many of the highway bridges.

“That is when I knew the job was going to fall on me,” says Zdancewicz. “I was a jet engine mechanic in the United States Air Force stationed at RAF Mildenhall, and one of my jobs was to fix damaged or broken aircraft in remote locations - like the jungles of Africa, the sands of the

This bus is adorable and vintage.

It has had a few updates but it still very much holds its original character.

The upstairs deck will provide a great, unique view during the polo matches.

55

Middle East, and as high as the Arctic Circle. Most times, all I had was a small tool box, a bag full of o-rings, and lots of gasket sealer. I called my best mechanic friend, Dane Trask, and told him, ‘I’ve got a mission for you!’”

So the two made the journey up to Jacksonville, tool boxes in hand, and got to work on making the necessary repairs to make her driveable. Considering the fact that “The Hemingway” topped out at 41 miles per hour (and it takes 253 miles to drive from Jacksonville to Sarasota), the trip took roughly 9 ½ hours.

“It was definitely a crazy and exciting trip,” exclaims Zdancewicz.

But now, thanks to the mechanical work of Zdancewicz and Trask, and the vision of Miller, the London Bus has made it to its permanent home of Sarasota. The Sarasota Polo Club is excited to showcase this exciting new feature with everyone, and encourages everyone to come out and check out “The Hemingway” during the 2023 Season.

Meet the

Viana Brothers

Felipe Viana

By Abby Weingarten

Two up-and-coming superstars in the world of polo - brothers Nachi and Felipe Viana - have become familiar faces at the Sarasota Polo Club.

“I expect them to be not only a staple but a force to be reckoned with in the world of polo for the foreseeable future,” says Mason Wroe, the Director of Polo at the Sarasota Polo Club.

The Viana brothers were introduced to the Sarasota Polo Club several seasons ago by owner James Miller and friend Herndon Radcliff.

Radcliff, a long-time teammate of Miller and regular at the Sarasota Polo Club, thought the brothers would be a great fit.

Miller brought Felipe in to play on his Hillcroft Farm team, and Felipe has been a beloved player at the Sarasota Polo Club since, now playing with other members in the various tournaments that are offered.

Brother Nachi joined team Hillcroft last season - alongside Wroe, Miller and Vaughn Miller Jr. - for two of the club’s three 12-Goal tournaments.

This strong team thrived with Nachi’s outstanding talent and leadership, and were victorious in both tournaments So, who are the Viana brothers?

The Viana family does not, in fact, have a storied polo background.

Instead, the athleticism began with Felipe and Nachi.

“When we were young, we were introduced to Argentine couple Julio Saguier and Maria Garciarena. Julio studied law at New York University with our father, and both Julio and Maria were heavily involved with polo in Argentina. They were the first ones to plant the seed in our father’s head that my brother and I should play polo,” Felipe says. And that seed grew.

At age seven, Felipe was sent from New York to polo school in Uruguay.

“This was the start to my polo career, which involved traveling within Uruguay to find the best polo available that would help me improve,” Felipe says. “I also traveled to Argentina occasionally, where I had the opportunity to play in various youth tournaments. At a young age, I won the Copa Potrillos, which is the world’s largest youth polo tournament.”

When Felipe turned 18, he embarked on his journey to the United States, attended the University of Virginia and began playing polo professionally.

In his early 30s, he has been playing polo professionally ever since, and his ultimate goal is to build a top polo organization and play at the highest level.

“Polo is definitely a lifestyle. It dictates what you do every day,” Felipe says. “The drive to commit to this lifestyle is the love for horses and the sport. Building your string, breeding new stock, breaking in green horses and turning them into playable polo ponies, improving each horse’s athletic condition so they can perform at their best, flying horses internationally to compete - every part of it is amazing. sar asota polo

202 3

|

56

And the sport itself is spectacular. It is both technical and physical from each other but from their family. and involves dozens of horses. But it is unique in that you play as a “We are thankful that our parents support us as we travel endless team. It is hard to beat.” miles to compete in a sport that we love,” Felipe says.

Nachi agrees. Also an alumni of the University of Virginia, Nachi “It has been a great career so far,” Nachi says, “Having these started playing polo around the age of six after being inspired by opportunities to travel and compete is fantastic. Hopefully, Felipe his brother. and I can keep growing our organization and, someday, I can “I have loved horses since I was born,” Nachi says. “Dad would let compete with Felipe in high-goal polo. In order to do that, we have to me ride around the farm alone when I was only three. I have continue supporting one another.” always enjoyed riding and just being around horses.

That support comes in all forms—from positive When Felipe started playing, I would practice on criticism and sideline coaching to building teams The Viana his horses before he would play a match.” together. brothers are the Nachi continued developing in the sport of “In polo, to be successful and possess polo and, through Felipe, started receiving longevity in the sport, you not only most recent in a opportunities to play professionally. Some need talent and good horses, but also a long line of poloof his key accomplishments in polo thus far supporting cast,” Wroe says. “The Viana are being able to compete in the Gauntlet playing siblings that brothers are the most recent in a long line of Polo last winter as well as playing in this of polo-playing siblings that help each help each other at year’s Coronation Cup in England, where he other at every step in the process.” represented his home country of Uruguay.

Sarasota Polo Club members and players every step in the “It was also an accomplishment to win the have also been heavily supportive of the process.

Hampton’s 16-Goal Tournament with Felipe last Viana brothers, commenting on their positive year,” Nachi says. demeanors and tremendous work ethic. Everyone is While the brothers have played polo around the world, eager to have them back for the 2023 Season of Sarasota they have without a doubt found a home in Sarasota.

Polo, where they can continue to showcase their talents on the “Sarasota is definitely one of the nicest polo clubs that we have Sunday Polo field. been to—in terms of the amount of polo fields, the size of the crowds “The old saying goes that you want everyone to do their best, play attending the polo matches, the stabling capacity for horses, and the well and win because it raises your own level of play to match your accommodations,” Felipe says. “We are proud to come play here.” competition,” Wroe says. “They both root for and help each other The Viana brothers have lots to be proud of. But their success has however possible because, if one succeeds, the entire Viana not come without a great amount of effort and support, not only family succeeds.”

Nachi Viana

sar asota polo

202 3

|

58

LOOKING TO IMPROVE YOUR CORPORATE IMAGE?

Wrigley Media helps companies improve their interaction with customers and partners through original content development for websites and social media platforms, as well as, television and other media platforms.

Please contact us for a professional consultation at 859.266.3776 or email info@wrigleymediagroup.com.

WRIGLEYMEDIAGROUP.COM

The Sarasota Polo School Continues to Flourish

By Abby Weingarten

S

Since its revival in 2020, the Sarasota Polo School has continued to grow exponentially—with an average of 20 students (ranging in ages from seven to 72) participating every week. Instructor Ashlie Osburg and her professional polo player husband, Neil Osburg, have developed quite the following.

Ashlie - originally from Chicago, Illinois - has been riding horses since the age of seven. She grew up competing in dressage and hunter jumper shows, and transitioned to training horses while she was in high school.

She continued her equine involvement in college, where she studied Equine Science at the University of Kentucky.

Her husband Neil, a Clearwater Beach native, has been playing polo since the age of 10.

Neil and Ashlie met at a polo club in Wellington, where Neil was playing professionally at the time. The couple moved to Sarasota in 2015 and have been involved with the Sarasota Polo Club ever since.

When the club showed interest in bringing back the Sarasota Polo School in 2020, Neil and Ashlie jumped on the opportunity to get more involved with the Sarasota Polo Club.

sar asota polo

202 3

|

60

The Sarasota Polo School offers hourlong lessons and mentorship to students of all skill levels. Students are taught everything from basic horsemanship to swing mechanics. Lessons include the rental of a professionally-tacked, experienced polo pony, as well as a helmet, mallet and ball.

“Students with little to no riding experience start in the Sarasota Polo Club’s outdoor polo arena, as the arena offers play at a slower speed in a confined area,” Ashlie says. “Students with riding experience have the opportunity to start directly on the grass, and they learn and master the different types of swings and the rules of play regarding the line of the ball.”

The goal of the Sarasota Polo School is to prepare its students to participate in chukkers of polo - either in the arena or on the grass. Ashlie says that students are prepared for this through group lessons, where students can participate in coached scrimmages that simulate the play of chukkers.

A handful of students have already graduated from the school to become fulltime Sarasota Polo Club playing members.

One student, Melissa Wightman, took her first lesson with the Sarasota Polo School in 2021, and says the experience was transformative.

“Lessons are an important part of learning to ride, whether it is your first lesson or your thousandth,” Wightman says. “I have ridden for most of my life, so I came into the Sarasota Polo School with riding experience. So it is hard to explain how the experience of taking a polo lesson at the Sarasota Polo School has benefitted me without sounding cliche.

Interior Design | Unique Furnishings | Home Accessories

But learning to play polo has without a doubt changed my life. I have become a better rider than I ever thought was possible. I ride more horses in a week than I used to ride in a year, and I have gained confidence back that I lost.”

In 2016, Wightman experienced a bad fall off of her horse and consequently broke her hip. This experience made her hesitant to ride new horses.

“Neil and Ashlie helped me regain my confidence in riding,” Wightman says. “As far as instruction, they know the sport of polo and their horses, inside and out.

They always ask what we want to work on for the day, and focus on both short-term and long-term goals. They are also great at matching horses with riders. The number one thing that I always tell people is how safe and fun the horses are at the Sarasota Polo School.”

Neil and Ashlie even helped match Melissa with her own polo pony.

“Once I fell in love with polo, I knew I wanted to get polo ponies of my own,” Wightman says. “Neil and Ashlie helped me find my first mare, Mini, who has given me the confidence and courage to do things that I never thought I would be able to do.”

Wightman now owns two horses that she boards and plays on-site at the Sarasota Polo Club.

“Honestly, if you would have told 12-year-old me what I was doing right now, I would never have believed you,” exclaims

Neil and Ashlie helped me regain my confidence in riding.

As far as instruction, they know the sport of polo and their horses, inside and out.

Wightman. “And I have made incredible, supportive friends in the process. There really is a great group of people at the Sarasota Polo Club. They all want you to see you succeed.”

Another Sarasota Polo School student, Helene Buckley, can also attest. Buckley has been taking lessons every other weekend, and recently won the Sarasota Polo Club’s “Season of 2022 Best Fan Award.”

“Physically, polo is my lifeline. I hate exercising and I have a sedentary job. Since riding polo requires so many moving parts, it is a total body workout for me,” Buckley says. “Emotionally, it also pumps me up. I am full of enthusiasm mixed with a healthy dose of fear, which disappears as soon as I am in the saddle. Spiritually, riding and working around these powerful, half-ton animals who have amazing sensitivity - both physically and emotionally - just makes my heart glow.”

According to Buckley, you will not find a better place to learn the sport of polo than through the Sarasota Polo School.

“Trying to find polo lessons in the Sarasota area was impossible until the Sarasota Polo School reopened in 2020. Very few polo clubs offer lessons year-round. Places like Wellington or The Villages only open up their polo schools during their seasons,” Buckley says. “When I saw that the Sarasota Polo School was going to reopen, and stay open year-round, I knew I had to get involved.

When I was first introduced to Ashlie, she assured me that she would make my polo dreams come true, and she has kept her word.

She has given me confidence and hope and, at the age of 72, that is a major plus. Without Ashlie, I would not be able to relish the feeling of being a part of something that is so unique and wonderful as the Sarasota Polo School.”

Wightman and Buckley are not the only two students who are singing Neil and Ashlie’s praises. The Sarasota Polo School continues to flourish with success stories, as other students have moved on to become members of the club, and more and more students are showing interest and getting involved.

TO GET YOUR POLO CAREER STARTED AT THE SARASOTA POLO CLUB THROUGH THE SARASOTA POLO SCHOOL,

EMAIL LESSONS@SARASOTAPOLO.COM OR CALL/TEXT (941) 907-0000 sar asota polo

202 3

|

62

INVESTUS Realty – INVEST WITH TRUST –

SALES • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • INVESTMENT We help homeowners realize their dreams.

Staging, remodeling, buying and selling.

We cater to investors who wish to develop their rental portfolio in a safe and profitable manner.

We manage rentals from A to Z, purchase, renovation, marketing and tenant selection, accounting and reporting.

investus.us

Fluent in English, French, German and Spanish

Vincent RICAUD Broker/Owner MBA/GRI 941-538-2010 info@investus.us

KEEPING

POLO FIT How Sarasota Polo Players Continue Playing Past the Age of 50

By Dan Guttenplan

For many of the Sarasota Polo Club’s older, veteran players, each season brings with it a cost-benefit analysis.

The inner monologue for each player might sound something similar to this: ▶ Is it worth the risk to continue playing for another season? ▶ How much more time will I need to invest in my polo game day preparation? ▶ How long will it take me to recover from a polo practice or match? ▶ Most importantly, is polo still going to be fun?

sar asota polo

For five of the Sarasota Polo Club’s senior players, the benefits will always outweigh the risks. These individuals spend countless hours preparing for each polo match, all so that they can improve their respective odds.

Those same Sarasota Polo Club players – all of whom are over the age of 50 – demonstrate their commitment to the sport of polo through their respective recovery efforts, which vary from basic anti-inflammatory medications and ice baths to more invasive methods like lasering, receiving injections, and even having other procedures or surgeries completed.

For those who are interested in playing polo after the age of 50, here is the blueprint. But, be warned: There are no cheat codes or shortcuts!

202 3

|

64

James Miller James Miller has centered the last 5 years of his life around the sport of polo, as he took over ownership of the Sarasota Polo Club in 2018. He has been playing polo recreationally for a total of 22 years but, since passing 50, he has completely restructured his training regime.

“Before I turned 50, my cross training included martial arts, basketball, triathlons, weight training, tennis and really any sport that helped me develop extreme fitness. Later in my 40’s, my body began telling me that I was overtraining. I realized that I had to make significant changes. I have always focused on stretching, but now I also pay more attention to building my core strength as well as maintaining my muscle tone and fitness through swimming. Swimming has reduced the wear and tear on my body significantly, while helping me maintain a rigorous cross training program.

I practice all four stokes in the pool, but I consider butterfly to be the ‘killer stroke.’”

During the Sarasota Polo season, Miller makes a point to either stick and ball, practice or play tournament-style polo almost every day.

He feels that time spent in the saddle is equally as important for keeping his body riding fit, as riding involves a completely different type of fitness. Prior to playing polo, Miller warms himself up by stretching in his hot tub for 30 or more minutes, and then will ride his bike to the Sarasota Polo Club.

Despite following a variety of preventative measures, Miller still suffers typical recurring ailments from time to time similar to that of many other polo players - his most common being tennis elbow.

“It is something that many polo players have to stay on top of constantly because, once it flares up, it is difficult to play through.”

Miller is inspired by Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady because of his commitment and ability to play a professional sport past the prime age range.

“Polo is very different from NFL football.

Because we have our horses to help us play, we are able to continue playing the sport that we love competitively at a professional level much longer than athletes in many other sports. Regardless, every human body ages, and we as athletes have to make choices every day that affect how long we can maintain a competitive edge in a sport that is dominated by men under the age of 30.”

65

raymond guest jocelyne groulx Jocelyne Groulx might make it look easy while riding a horse, but it is the work that she does behind the scenes that makes her unique.

“The impact of playing polo is a lot stronger than playing a sport like tennis because it is a much stronger impact whenever you swing and hit the ball,” Groulx said. “It is without a doubt one of the most difficult sports to continue to play at this age.”

Groulx can make a case for logging the most hours spent on a horse of any Sarasota Polo Club player, having grown up riding horses and continuing to practice daily in preparation for each polo season in Sarasota.

“I have been riding all of my life,” Groulx said. “I ride every day. A lot of people my age just play the matches. But there is nothing that you can do to better prepare yourself for riding than spending time in the saddle.

Outside of riding, I am able to strengthen my muscles and tone my body. Other than that, I cannot do any exercise that is too repetitive in regards to strength training, as I often experience aches and pains from the wear and tear.”

Groulx understands that she will never be a weight room warrior, but that does not mean that she hides from the less desirable workouts. Quite the contrary. She decided to build a gym in her Montreal home, giving herself no excuses for avoiding the supplementary exercises that keep her healthy on top of her horses.

Despite her best efforts to stave off the aging process, Groulx has encountered the typical polo maladies – tennis elbow and inflammation in her joints. She previously experimented with anti-inflammatory injections, but has since focused her recovery efforts on taking supplements.

“I take supplements and make sure that I am eating well all of the time to help reduce inflammation,” Groulx said.

Groulx has found that pilates also pairs well with playing polo and makes time each day for it. She also devotes time each night for stretching.

The main thing at my age is maintaining my flexibility. I am fortunate to have the ability to remain quite flexible for someone my age, but I am also not out there on the polo field playing against people my age. So, I have to do a little bit more than most in order to be able to perform at my best.” sar asota polo

A 57-year-old polo enthusiast, Raymond Guest recommends adopting a disciplined lifestyle for those who want to age gracefully in the sport of polo. Cardio, strength training, stretching, diet and exercise are the tenets to Guest’s polo philosophy.

“I focus on diet and exercise every day,” Guest said. “And staying hydrated.”

Guest does not waste a second in the gym, spending 15 to 20 minutes cycling on a stationary bike for a high-intensity warm-up before rotating through supersets on multiple machines.

“I will pair two machines together and do three sets on each,” Guest said. “ And then I will pair up two more, and so on and so forth. I always pair up an upper body machine with a lower body machine. I shoot for a total of 12 sets at 15 reps each, and it usually takes me about 15 minutes to complete the entire round. There is absolutely no rest.”

Guest also does not spare his horses the preparatory work that they need for optimal performance. He rides six days a week, taking only Monday off for both himself and his horses to recover from the previous week.

“Part of injury prevention is getting to know each of your horses and seeing how each one reacts and responds,” Guest said. “It is about communication between you and the horse. You have to ride as often as you can in order to know what you have underneath of you whenever you play. It helps you ride more efficiently so that you can prevent injuries.”

Guest is somewhat of a naturalist when it comes to recovery.

He subscribes to a “no injections, whatsoever” philosophy, choosing instead to invest his energy into proper nutrition, hydration and exercise.

“I take supplements that are designed to help with recovery,” Guest said. “Amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscles, are an important supplement to me. I also take potassium, as well as other essential nutrients. Creating higher pH levels in my body helps combat soreness and a build-up of lactic acid.”

While Guest is proof that polo is not strictly a “young man’s game,” he wants to make it clear that senior players cannot adopt the same care-free approach that the players half their age are able to follow.

“I have seen young guys land in Sarasota and get on a horse only an hour later,” Guest said. “They are not prepared physically to get on a horse and play six chukkers. Because of this, they are susceptible to injuries because they did not stretch properly or adequately loosen up before the game. In my opinion, if you want to be able to continue to play polo as you age, it has to become a lifestyle.”

202 3

|

66

slade sharpsteen Slade Sharpsteen does not expect his polo competitors to take it easy on him just because he will be turning 63 this season.

In fact, just the opposite is true. He knows that the injury risk increases with each year that he continues to play polo. Take last season, for example.

“I got taken out twice,” Sharpsteen said. “My most serious fall happened when a player cut in front of me and took out my horse.

I unfortunately whacked my head pretty good. Luckily, I suffered more from whiplash rather than a concussion. Regardless, that took quite a bit of time to recover from.”

Lengthier recovery times are unfortunately part of the aging process, and that is why Sharpsteen attempts to avoid the injury bug by becoming one with his horses. Having struggled through bouts of tendonitis, shoulder pain, tennis elbow, and the aforementioned whiplash, Sharpsteen attempts to limit his injury risk by spending as much time as he can on his horses.

“I am really not one for working out, so I do my best to stay fit by riding as often as I can,” Sharpsteen said. “If you ride all of the time to stay fit, that is in my opinion the best form of injury prevention for polo.”

Sharpsteen understands that he will inevitably face the prospect of rehabbing nagging issues since he is not adding body armor by frequenting the gym. Tennis elbow has been a pervasive inconvenience for Sharpsteen for almost 30 years, but he has found that cortisone shots can provide season-long relief.

“I went through a stretch back in the 1990’s when I could not even pick up a coffee cup,” Sharpsteen said. “And it happened again three years ago. It always comes back during the middle of the polo season, and I have to go and get a cortisone shot in order to be able to play through the rest of the season. One of the things most of us do at this age is learn how to play through the pain.”

Sharpsteen has become adept at diagnosing the most timely treatment in a rotation of ice packs, heat compresses, icy hot patches, and magnetic pulse therapy - the latter of which he also uses on his horses.

“I know a lot of players who have used magnetic pulse therapy,” Sharpsteen said. “It works well on both my back and neck, and I have used it a few times on my elbow.”

Sharpsteen understands that “pain-free polo” may be a thing of the past. “Pain management polo” might be a more accurate description moving forward. Regardless, he says it beats the alternative.

“When I was younger, an old-timer told me that it is always good to be on this side of the grass,” Sharpsteen said. “That is my theory with polo.”

Brent hamill Brent Hamill’s advice to achieve longevity in the sport of polo is rather simple: Find a good orthopedic surgeon.

Hamill says this half-jokingly, while also crediting his post-50’s playing career to a myriad of other preventative and restorative options, including yoga, personal training, frequent horseback riding, running, cycling, swimming, stem cell and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, rejuvenative mitochondria lasers, and cold tub immersion.

“The main thing is staying flexible,” Hamill said. “I am not the most flexible, but when you watch the professionals and see the way they are able to balance in the saddle in order to reach the balls, you realize how important core strength and flexibility truly are.

One of his favorite low-impact workouts to help him build strength and flexibility in his hips is treading water. He estimates that his average swimming workout spans 15 to 25 minutes. Music makes the time spent in the pool more palatable. Hamill says that he often plays a line-up of five songs, switching the exercise routine after each song. For the majority of his pool workout, he alternates between using exclusively arms and legs, but finishes by working both at the same time.

“I mix up my workouts in order to keep them interesting and not overwork any one muscle group,” Hamill said.

Hamill also enjoys running, cycling, and doing yoga. Even with this regiment of low-impact workouts, Hamill has found it necessary to seek medical treatment in order to help with recovery and inflammation.

He received stem cell therapy and PRP injections in January of 2021 as recommended by his primary physician to address pain in his quadriceps and knees, and unfortunately was left out of the saddle for six months in order to recover fully. Later that year, he took another month off of polo in order to recover from an injection targeting his shoulder.

“As I have gotten older, I have had phenomenal success using stem cell and PRP therapy for recovery,” Hamill said. “I have had both quadricep and ligament tears, and since tendons and ligaments are capable of growing back together, these therapies help expedite the process.”

Hamill also learned of the benefits of rejuvenative mitochondria lasers while watching his polo horses respond positively to the treatments.

Hamill soon began receiving laser treatments himself, giving him a newfound connection with his horses.

But the key for Hamill, as he sees it, has been the medical intervention that he has received from his orthopedic surgeon. Fearing that his polo career was over five years ago due to persistent pain in his hip, Hamill made the decision to undergo hip replacement surgery. It is honestly the best decision that I have ever made.”

67

By Abby Weingarten

hocola, a 15-year-old Argentine Criollo, has a very important job at the Sarasota Polo Club.

The polo horse has gained prestige as the presenter of the American flag during the opening ceremony of the Sarasota Polo Club’s Sunday Polo matches.

Often referred to as the “flag horse,” Chocola is perfectly suited for the position. It is a Sarasota Polo Club tradition that the American flag is presented on horseback. In previous seasons, the American flag was carried by one of long-time member George Alexander’s beautiful Clydesdales. But, in 2020, Chocola took over full-time flag carrying duties.

Sarasota Polo Club member Tammy Wyman owns Chocola, Sarasota Polo Club Director of Operations Paige Lautzenheiser rides and carries the flag, and Amanda “Mannie” Shelton is the groom. But who is this equine superstar, exactly?

“What originally drew me to Chocola was her color and her beautiful, upbeat personality,” says Tammy sar asota polo

202 3

Wyman, who purchased Chocola at a polo club in Santa Barbara, California, six years ago. “I knew in a matter of minutes that she was something special.”

Wyman was correct. It is Chocola’s laid-back demeanor that makes her ideal for the flag horse position.

“Nothing bothers this horse. You can have big crowds, music blaring, people waving, and the winds blowing strong - and she is so stoic and just continues on her steady march around the field without missing a beat,” Wyman says.

It takes a special horse to be willing to present a loud and flopping American flag (that occasionally brushes her ears or touches her rump) around a polo field of 2,000-3,000 spectators cheering and waving. “She is not fazed by much,” says Sarasota Polo Club Director of Operations Paige Lautzenheiser. “This allows me to ride really close to the crowd and interact with the awesome spectators. Chocola also stands nicely for the live singing of our national anthem. And she has allowed us to rock some pretty ridiculous costumes.” |

68

Groom Amanda Shelton does the costuming and so much more for Chocola, who is also known as “Cho.” “Cho is first and foremost a very solid polo horse. She is neat and tidy in her stall. She will follow you around without needing a halter and lead rope. And she is a very eye-catching color,” says Shelton, who has worked as a groom throughout the United States since 2008. “She is the most patient horse I have ever met. She has always been pretty ‘bombproof,’ so we just started putting different things on her to see how she would react. Every time, we would try a little more and, in that process, we found that she is pretty much unfazed by anything we put on her or her rider.”

Whether Chocola is dolled up in a Wonder Woman cape, St. Patrick’s Day bow ties, Hawaiian-themed hula skirt, swimming goggles, or pool floaties, she does not seem to mind. She just goes with the flow.

“She is pretty open to just about anything, and that makes the experience so easy and so fun,” Lautzenheiser says. “We have done this together enough that she now knows the pattern, and almost just goes on autopilot as we go around. I don’t really have to steer much, which comes in handy on windy days when I have to focus more on the American flag in order to keep it upright.”

And, though Chocola is now becoming a household name among polo match attendees in Sarasota, one thing spectators may not know is how intuitive she is.

“She knows the pattern so well that, if you change the pattern up - like we did for Sunset Polo - she questions you,” Lautzenheiser says. “We don’t ride all the way around the field for Sunset Polo like we do on Sundays, so when I went to make a sharper-than-usual turn at the corner to come back to the center, I felt her grab the bit and try to take me in our usual pattern. It was as if she was saying, ‘Are you confused? We go this way!’ And I had to assure her that I wasn’t losing my brain - that we actually needed to go a different way than normal.”

“I also swear she knows the national anthem,” Lautzenheiser says. “Our pattern involves cantering off towards the Clubhouse at the end of the national anthem. Cho will stand dead still (most of the time) but start to turn towards her exit corner as the national anthem is coming to a close. I usually don’t even have to tell her to go.

She just knows when it’s her time to shine.”

Chocola is truly a one-of-a-kind mare.

“I’m very grateful to Tammy for providing us with a safe and enjoyable horse to carry the American flag,” says Lautzenheiser. “This mare is a special one, and I am lucky to have the opportunity to be the one to ride her. Chocola and I look forward to seeing everyone for the 2023 Season of Sarasota Polo!”

69

By Abby Weingarten

From sunup to sundown, the grooms who work inside the equestrian community of the Sarasota Polo Club are constantly toiling to keep their equine partners ready for the sport that they were bred to play: polo.

The work of a groom is laborious and exhausting, with a schedule that is relatively unforgiving. Grooms devote their lives to the care and well-being of these talented animals. A typical daily routine begins early in the morning and can extend well into the evening on particularly busy days.

At the Sarasota Polo Club, many grooms work behind the scenes to get the horses spectators watch on the Sunday polo field ready for the exciting action. Last season, the Sarasota Polo Club members and players nominated many talented grooms for the title of the Sarasota Polo Club’s Season of 2022 Best Groom Award.

Julian Montiel ultimately took home the trophy, but two others – Lytha Wendt and Joaquin Navarro – walked away with honorable mentions.

And now, we would like to introduce them to you in their own words. sar asota polo

202 3

|

70

Julian Montiel

SEASON OF 2022 BEST GROOM AWARD RECIPIENT I come from a city called Mar del Plata, which is located 500 kilometers from Buenos

Aires, Argentina. My family has been involved with horses for three generations. When I was growing up, I watched my father work with horses on various farms. We also always had horses of our own. So, from a very young age, I spent quite a bit of time around horses and consequently developed this love and passion for working with them.

I started working with horses professionally at the age of 14 during my summer school break and, when I graduated from high school, I took a job with Puesto Viejo - a polo club that was just starting to develop in Buenos Aires, Argentina. I worked there for two years, and it was through that position that I received the opportunity to go to work for Los Machitos Polo, a large polo organization in Argentina. It was through Los Machitos that I was able to move to the United States.

After I moved to the United States, I received an offer to work with show jumping horses. I wanted to try something new, so I transitioned out of polo to that, and really enjoyed it. I worked in the show jumping industry for two years but, when I found out that I was going to be a father, I felt that transitioning back to being a polo groom was the right decision as the sport is considerably more stable and family-oriented. So I started applying for positions.

I received a call from the manager of the Hillcroft Farm polo team with a nice challenge - to go to work with my wife, Yamila. The opportunity to work alongside her as we expand our family was something that greatly appealed to both of us. While she was a face that few knew of in the polo industry, her attention to detail is second to none and I knew that we would make a great team.

We have worked for Hillcroft Farm for seven years now, and are fortunate to be able to introduce our now two children to the sport of polo. We are passionate about what we do, and both enjoy taking care of the horses on a daily basis.

The greatest reward for me is when the horses that I take care of give their best at each match and return to the stable - happy, healthy, and sound. I challenge myself every day to improve the care and performance of these horses so that they can be the best that they can be.

Winning the Season of 2022 Best Groom Award was a nice acknowledgment of the effort that I give every day as a groom. I am proud that the effort of the person who works behind the scenes at a polo match, but who plays a pivotal part in the performance of the horses used in the polo match, is valued.

71

Lytha Wendt

SEASON OF 2022 BEST GROOM AWARD HONOR ABLE MENTION

I grew up in Sealy, Texas, and worked many

different jobs, but have always had a love and passion for horses. So I decided to pursue a career as a groom. Thanks to this profession, I have had the opportunity to travel to many beautiful places, including California, Wyoming, Colorado and Michigan.

I have worked for several different equestrian operations, but am now employed by Mason Wroe, the current Director of Polo at the Sarasota Polo Club. I have been with his organization for four years now. We spend spring, summer and fall in Houston, Texas, and the winters in Sarasota. When we come to Sarasota, we typically bring 14 horses. Mason and his wife, Kaylee, school the horses single, and I am responsible for taking the exercise sets and completing the day-to-day care of the horses.

The main highlight of this profession is when one of the ponies is named “Best Playing Pony” of a particular match. I light up whenever I get the news that one of our ponies has been nominated, as I think any groom would. Because you spend so much time around these horses through the process of taking

sar asota polo

care of them, they become like your kids. So it is a momentous accomplishment that everyone celebrates whenever your horse wins the award.

The main challenge of the profession for me is the travel that keeps me from being with my family as often as I would like. In addition to my equine children, I also have human children and grandchildren of my own, and hate being away from them. But I see them as often as I can.

I was thrilled to receive an Honorable Mention for the Season of 2022 Best Groom Award. Grooming is what I love to do. I am fortunate that my job does not feel like a job to me because of the love that I have for these horses. I love the ponies and I love taking care of them. They are very special to me and they are just as much family to me as my human family.

Whatever it takes to make them happy is what I am going to do, even if it involves working long hours. To know that somebody has recognized the hard work that I put into the sport of polo each and every day is a great feeling, and I am grateful.

202 3

|

72

Joaquin Navarro

SEASON OF 2022 BEST GROOM AWARD HONOR ABLE MENTION

I have worked as a groom for quite some time now. When I took my first

grooming position, I already knew how to ride horses, as I learned in Mexico during my childhood.

My dad worked on a ranch, and I grew up helping him wherever I could. It was there that I learned how to clean a stable and overall have good organization in the barn. Not only did I learn how to ride there, but I was also taught how to take sets to exercise the horses. I also started learning how to play the sport of polo through stick and ball.

I took my first grooming position back in 2011 in Wellington, Florida, and continued learning how to be the best groom that I could be. Later in my grooming career, I was introduced to Mr. James P. Uihlein and Mr. James Morrow. I was offered a job working for their polo operation. The opportunity was an exciting one, so I accepted it in 2018 and moved to Sarasota to begin my work with them.

It has been a great experience working for their operation so far, as I am able to continue learning and feel satisfied with what I do for a living and where I am at with my life. The horses that I am responsible for are all very friendly, and I enjoy riding and working with them on a daily basis. I am happy and fortunate to be in charge of such a fabulous group of horses.

Working as a groom entails a lot of work, and you must enjoy what you do and be dedicated to your work in order to also have fun. And that is exactly what I do. Being able to offer the members and spectators of the Sarasota Polo Club quality, safe and fun polo every weekend is an honor, and it was an even bigger honor to be nominated for the Season of 2022 Best Groom Award.

HEDGETEAM.COM

Like the Sarasota Polo Club, The Hedge Team Are Proven Winners When it Comes to Sarasota/Manatee Real Estate

The Hedge Team has been selling luxury local real estate and providing their customers excellent service since 1992.

THE HEDGE TEAM

941.587.6660 | Tom.HedgeJr@PremierSIR.com

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

USPA Secures a Permanent Home for Polo in South Florida

I

n June, the United States Polo Association (USPA) announced that it had purchased the core assets of the International Polo Club Palm Beach in Wellington, Florida (“IPC”). The USPA acquired 161 acres from WEP Polo LLC and WEP Polo Operations LLC, including Fields 1 through 5, the IPC grandstand, the Pavilion, the Mallet Grille, the Seventh Chukker, the USPA Clubhouse shop, the Outback Field, the Outback facility, and the IPC social club and its facilities, including a swimming pool, gym, and tennis courts.

Formerly IPC, the facility has since been deemed the “The USPA National Polo Center – Wellington” (“NPC”). The purchase brings to life the USPA Board of Governors’ vision of a USPA-owned “Sunday Field” that will serve as the permanent center of polo in America and set the standard for excellence in polo. That vision was first articulated by USPA Chairman Stewart Armstrong in an essay called The Sunday Field that appeared in the Spring 2020 issue of Hurlingham Polo Magazine.

The USPA will continue to host the Gauntlet of Polo® at NPC, but it will also use the facility to support polo played at the medium- and low-goal levels.

The USPA intends to keep substantially all the current IPC staff in place.

Tim Gannon, co-founder of Outback Steakhouse and three-time winner of the U.S. Open Polo Championship®, will serve as Chairman of the Board of a newly-formed USPA subsidiary created to revitalize the social club and hospitality facilities.

With its ownership of the National Polo Center, the USPA has secured a perpetual home for polo in America that will serve the same function as the

sar asota polo

202 3

AAP-controlled Palermo fields and AAP-owned Pilar fields do in Argentina. In short, the facility will enable the USPA to showcase its tournaments, develop American players, and sustain an environment that will retain and attract new players and sponsors at every level. It will also secure the future of winter and spring polo in South Florida, which many of the sport’s key participants from throughout the country rely on as a major source of the annual income that allows them to participate in polo at their summer and fall club locations.

Through its use of NPC, the USPA aims to promote excellence as the goal for all who play polo in America. The USPA is confident that continuing to strive for excellence will lead to even greater demand for polo. Excellence means many things – among them are first-rate facilities to present the sport in the best light, intelligent rules, fair handicapping, quality umpiring, and a level playing field for all. It inspires both amateurs and professionals to be their best and play with the best and it results in an engaging experience for players and spectators. Excellence requires commitment – it doesn’t happen on its own. |

74

The USPA will continue to invest in the sport of polo at its member clubs across the United States. All its current programs will continue to be funded and operated on their pre-purchase trajectories. These include the Arena Tournament Initiative, Bridge to High Goal (B2HG), Interscholastic/ Intercollegiate (I/I), Legacy Polo Series, National Arena Amateur Cup, Military Incentive Program, National Youth Tournament Series (NYTS), Polo Development Initiative (PDI), Prize Money Matching (PMMP), Tournament Support Program (TSP), Trophy Reimbursement, the Professional and Certified Umpires programs, USPA Livestreaming, and the Women’s Tournament Incentive Program.

NPC made its official debut October 29 - November 6 with the USPAhosted Federation of International Polo World Championship. A massive success, the event attracted thousands of eager spectators and showcased the high-caliber play that the facility offers. In the future, the USPA plans to open the annual Wellington polo season in October. This expansion of play dates will allow USPA member clubs in and beyond Florida to play their tournament semifinals and finals at the National Polo Center when it is not being used for the Gauntlet®.

Wellington Village Manager Jim Barnes is enthusiastic about the USPA expanding its footprint in the Village. “Wellington welcomes the USPA’s purchase of the former IPC facility and the establishment of the National Polo Center, which will ensure polo’s permanent and important presence in the Village for the mutual benefit of the polo community and Village residents.”

Widely regarded as the winter hub of world-class equestrian competition, 75

Wellington has played a critical role in the development of the sport of polo in the United States and abroad since the 1970s. Every January through April, the Florida high-goal season attracts the world’s top polo organizations, highest-rated professionals, and top horses. South Florida is the home of the USPA and USPA Global Licensing, as well as the Museum of Polo & Hall of Fame and the Polo Training Foundation.

The United States Polo Association® (“USPA”) is organized and exists for the purposes of promoting the game of polo; coordinating the activities of its member clubs and registered player members; arranging and supervising polo tournaments, competitions, and games; and providing rules, handicaps and tournament conditions for those events. Its overarching goals are improving the sport and promoting the safety and welfare of its human and equine participants. Founded in 1890, the USPA is the largest voluntary sports organization in North America for the sport of polo. The USPA is currently made up of more than 200 member clubs and approximately 5,000 registered player members.

It annually awards and oversees roughly 50 national tournaments hosted by its member clubs. For more information, please visit uspolo.org.

U.S. Polo Assn. is the official brand of the USPA. With a multi-billion-dollar global footprint and worldwide distribution through some 1,200 U.S. Polo Assn. retail stores, department stores, sporting goods channels, independent retailers and e-commerce, U.S. Polo Assn. offers apparel for men, women, and children, as well as accessories and footwear in 190 countries worldwide. Ranked the fifth largest sports licensor in License Global magazine’s 2020 list of “Top 150 Global Licensors,” U.S. Polo Assn. is named alongside such iconic sports brands as the National Football League, the National Basketball Association and Major League Baseball. Visit uspoloassnglobal.com.

Little Shop of Horrors, 2022

Sarasota’s original theatre

Captivating, inventive, passionate and

community-driven,

there’s something for everyone at The Players. From contemporary musicals to classic plays, each production is a memorable experience for the community, by the community.

We Salute Our Players 2023 PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

It is through the players’ dedication and commitment to the sport that the Sarasota Polo Club is able to provide residents of the Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota areas with the most exhilarating sport played today.

77

5 GOALS

5 GOALS

Santa Barbara, CA

Argentina

Costi Caset

Toto Collardin

4 GOALS

4 GOALS

South Africa

Ocala, FL

Stuart Campbell

3 GOALS

5 GOALS

4 GOALS

Mauk, GA

Wellington, FL

Alan Martinez

4 GOALS

Guillermo Agüero

4 GOALS

Nick Johnson

Marcos Onetto

Mason Wroe

3 GOALS

3 GOALS

3 GOALS

Argentina

Wellington, FL

Farmington, CT

Cat Spring, TX

Trevor Niznik-Reeves

Agustin Arellano

Joe Wayne Barry

Francisco Llosa

3 GOALS

3 GOALS

2 GOALS

2 GOALS

Point Clear, AL

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Carmen de Patagones, Argentina

Port Mayaca, FL

Marion, TX

Charly Quincoces

Herndon Radcliff

2 GOALS

2 GOALS

Lexington, KY

Dallas, TX

Pilar, Argentina

James Miller

Vaughn Miller, Jr.

sar asota polo

Leandro Berrios

2 GOALS

Neil Osburg

Winchester, KY

202 3

|

78

Martin Eddy

2 GOALS

Buck Schott

Versailles, KY

2 GOALS

2 GOALS

Wichita, KS

1.5 GOALS

1.5 GOALS

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Jon Luke Beck

Tallahassee, FL

Meghan Okerlund

1 GOAL

1 GOAL

1 GOAL

1 GOAL

China, Michigan

St. Petersburg, FL

Abilene, TX

Crowell, TX

Josh Shelton

Hunter Jelsch

1 GOAL

Devin Vass Powell, OH

0.5 GOALS

James P. Uihlein

Grant Mayer

0.5 GOALS

Raymond Guest

Mark Mulligan

0.5 GOALS

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

Wichita, KS

Tallahasee, FL

Bradenton, FL

Newport, RI

Cash Shelton

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

Avondale, PA

Sarasota, FL

Michael Bucklin

0.5 GOALS

0.5 GOALS

Tommy Polk

Samuel Clemens

Slade Sharpsteen Winchester, KY

Roper Morrow

Sioux Falls, SD

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Anneke Beck

0 GOALS

Ramon Collardin

Holly Chamberlain

Tandil, Agentina

79

Frenchtown, NJ

Margaux Buchanan

0 GOALS

Jocelyne L. Groulx Quebec, Canada

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Vail, CO

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Brent Hamill

Raymond Mayer

Amanda Shelton

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

Mechanicsburg, PA

Lakewood Ranch, FL

England

0 GOALS

0 GOALS

-0.5 GOALS

Atlanta, GA

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Tallahasee, FL

Jack Shepley

Max Stevens

Raj Singh

Denny Woodruff

-0.5 GOALS

-0.5 GOALS

Sarasota, FL

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Wadi Gomero-Cure

Jaymie Klauber

-0.5 GOALS

-0.5 GOALS

Nantes, France

Louisville, KY

Vincent Ricaud

Roger Stainton

-0.5 GOALS

Ashlie Osburg Oswego, IL

-1 GOAL

Lexington, KY

sar asota polo

202 3

|

Wichita, KS

Don Stemaly Dallas, TX

-0.5 GOALS

Kelly Beck

Dana Aschinger

Trey Zoeller

0 GOALS

Larry Robinson

80

Mike Beck

Tallahasee, FL

-0.5 GOALS

Camille Ricaud Nantes, France

-1 GOAL

Chris Bales

Sarasota, FL

find your happy

farmers’ market

place

ranch nites

live music

Foodies + Fun-Lovers Rejoice!

As our tenants continue to open their doors, come experience all Waterside Place has to offer. Grab a bite to eat under the stars while enjoying live music and an ice-cold beverage. Break a sweat in a morning workout class before hitting up the Farmers’ Market for your favorite goods. Or, simply take a sunny stroll along the water’s edge.

COME LET LOOSE WITH US, WE’VE GOT A LOT TO SHOW YOU! 1561 LAKEFRONT DRIVE, LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34240

Wate rs idePlace .com Mark Your Calendars – Browse Our Events!

Now Open + Coming Soon Explore the directory!

-1 GOAL

-1 GOAL

Tallahasee, FL

Dallas, TX

-1 GOAL

Claire Dornak

Mary Pat Guest

-1 GOAL

-1 GOAL

-1 GOAL

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Lakewood Ranch, FL

Westchester, NY

Jillian Beck

Hanna Hornung

-1 GOAL

Rafal Krawczyk

New York, NY

-1 GOAL

Kaitlyn Hornung

-1 GOAL

New Hope, PA

-1 GOAL

Gregory Shepard

-1 GOAL

-1 GOAL

NOT RATED

New York, NY

Sarasota, FL

Boulder, CO

Lakewood Ranch, FL

NOT RATED

NOT RATED

Essex, CT

-1 GOAL

-1 GOAL

Barclay Knapp

Jim Moss

Scott Wheeler

Lucy Landry

Mary Howard

Sarasota, FL

Sylvia McNichol

James T. Taylor Bloomington, IL

Lakewood Ranch, FL

-1 GOAL

Arthur Hiscox

Sarasota, FL

Tammy Wyman

NOT RATED

Kathy Szabo

Middletown, OH

sar asota polo

Kathy Taylor

Cochabamba, Bolivia

202 3

|

82

Bradenton, FL

Mia Edgar

NOT RATED

Melissa Wightman Jacksonville, FL

Meet Me on Main Street

MUSIC ON MAIN

NOW OPEN – SOFIA’S

CAR SHOWS

Find It All Right Here

Welcome to Main Street at Lakewood Ranch! A picturesque town center lined with cafes and boutiques, specialty shops, international restaurants, mini-golf, the cinema, and various services and businesses.

The open air, pedestrian-friendly environment provides a unique place for strolling and shopping, special events, and concerts and festivals all year long. Come out and experience Main Street today!

LWRMAINSTREET.COM Browse Our Events & Explore the Directory!

8100 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch, Fl 34202

Meet the Staff TURF & MAINTENANCE

Nicholas Chavez Nick joined the Sarasota Polo Club Field Staff in 2012, and has been an integral part of the crew since then.

On Sunday’s, you can likely find him in the end zone, flagging the polo match!

Paige Lautzenheiser Director of Operations

Michelle Peters Director of Events, Food & Beverage

Paige joined the Sarasota Polo Club staff in 2018, and was promoted to Director of Operations in 2019. You can find her running around on Sundays, but don’t be afraid to stop her and introduce yourself!

A Northern Kentucky native, Michelle has dedicated 17 years to management within the hospitality industry. She is committed to providing her guests with the highest standards of service and quality, and is excited to join the Sarasota Polo Club team.

Jason (Poncho) Davis Jason joined the Sarasota Polo Club Field Staff in 2018. Poncho, as most people call him, is often found flagging the game on Sunday’s !

tucker reback From Charlottesville, VA, Tucker is a former carpenter and 1-Goal player.

He worked for George Alexander and Blackberry Polo Club for many years, and is now excited to be helping the Sarasota Polo Club!

Mason Wroe Director of Polo

Bryan Zdancewicz Director of Maintenance Bryan, an Air Force Veteran, joined the crew in 2018, and was promoted to Director of Maintenance in 2019. He is passionate about his work and eager to solve all kinds of challenges.

Mason joined the club as Director of Polo in 2019, to cultivate and grow the sport both on and off the field. Mason enjoys bringing fun, competitive polo to the Sarasota Polo Club and Lakewood Ranch communities.

sar asota polo

202 3

|

84

Let’s make your dream home your new home.

Whether you’re buying your first home, your

move-up home, your vacation home, or

Ron Trytek Director of Sales & Marketing A Chicago native, Ron grew up riding racehorses on a Thoroughbred farm in Barrington Hills, IL. He has spent much of his career working at Ritz-Carlton hotels throughout the world. Ron joined our team in 2018. He is passionate about promoting the Sarasota Polo Club.

anything in between, our team will do

everything it takes to

bit.ly/IBmortgage

get you there.

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

Christa Sweeney Home Lender NMLS: 470172 941-928-0230 csweeney@incrediblebank.comm

incrediblebank.com • Member FDIC

Building Brain Healthy Communities for the

Building Brain Healthy Communities Florida Suncoast for the and Beyond

Protecting Brain Health and Fighting Florida Suncoast andtheBeyond Brain Illness across Lifespan Protecting Brain Health and Fighting Brain Illness across the Lifespan

Brain Healthy Lifestyle Makes a Difference Brain Healthy Lifestyle Makes a Difference STRESS RESILIENCE STRESS RESILIENCE

NUTRITION

NUTRITION

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

AD SLEEP

SLEEP

SOCIAL CONNECTION

SOCIAL CONNECTION

EMOTIONALWELL-BEING WELL-BEING EMOTIONAL HOME, NATURE&&ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT HOME, NATURE MEANINGAND ANDPURPOSE PURPOSE MEANING COGNITIVE COGNITIVESTIMULATION STIMULATION GENERAL GENERALHEALTH HEALTH POSITIVE POSITIVEIMPACTS IMPACTS FUTURE PROTECTIVE FACTORS

FUTURE PROTECTIVE FACTORS

For more information visit | brainhealthinitiative.org

For more information visit | brainhealthinitiative.org

Thousands of spectators congregate on the sidelines each Sunday at the Sarasota Polo Club to cheer on our players and tailgate with friends and family.

87

sar asota polo

202 3

|

88

89

sar asota polo

202 3

|

90

91

sar asota polo

202 3

|

92

There’s a reason polo is called the “fastest game on four feet.” Since 1991, the Sarasota Polo Club has been providing exhilarating polo matches every Sunday through the winter. With exciting tailgate themes, halftime entertainment, tailgating, and divot stomping, the Sarasota Polo Club is the perfect place for a family outing.

93

sar asota polo

202 3

|

94

95

sar asota polo

202 3

|

96

97

sar asota polo

202 3

|

98

Help support children in our community battling pediatric cancer, because kids should fly kites not fight cancer.

Join us in the 2023 season for Kite Days at the Sarasota Polo Club!

Go fly a kite and make an immediate difference in the lives of children.

Facebook.com/DailyCCC

Emersyn,

Medulloblastoma Fighter

@ChildrensCancerCenter

ChildrensCancerCenter.org

Amara,

Rhabdomyosarcoma Fighter

sar asota polo

202 3

|

100

ADDR E SSING TOMOR ROW, TODAY. (941) 444-8845 www.prarch.com

ARCHITECTURE | PLANNING | INTERIOR DESIGN | CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

Safe, Reliable Horses Qualified Instructors All Ages Welcome Flexible Schedule At the Beautiful Sarasota Polo Club Grounds!

For more information, call or text or email Lessons@SarasotaPolo.com 941.907.0000 www.SarasotaPolo.com

sar asota polo

202 3

|

102

Gourmet Market • Tasting Room & Culinary Theater

2022 WINNER OF THE

BEST SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

AD

MANATEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

INTERACTIVE

MYSTERY DINNERS CULINARY CLASSES

PINEAPPLE KITCHEN KIDS®

CHARCUTERIE WORKSHOPS

BY JENNY

GOURMET

FOOD GIFTS

www.pineapplekitchen.com

4914 Lena Road Unit 104 Lakewood Ranch

2022 WINNERS CIRCLE 6-goal manatee cup / / / / / / / / / / / / Jan. 29, 2022

organic matters/Avalon farm polo alan martinez, martin eddy, max stevens, margaux Buchanan

MVP martin eddy

6-goal sarasota challenge / / / / / / / / feb. 26, 2022

Hawkwood

MVP

Leandro Berrios, Sterling Giannico, Ramon Collardin, Barclay Knapp sar asota polo

202 3

|

104

Sterling Giannico

6-goal ringling cup / / / / / / / / / / /

organic matters/Avalon farm polo Margaux Buchanan, Max Stevens, Martin Eddy, Alan Martinez

mar. 24, 2022

MVP Alan Martinez

8-goal Wayne Brown Memorial / / / / / / / / jan. 28, 2022

Ten Oaks Kelly Beck, Neil Osburg, Horacio Lizaso, Stuart Campbell 105

MVP

Alan Martinez

2022 WINNERS CIRCLE 8-goal gerry aschinger memorial / / / / / feb. 27, 2022

Ten oaks

MVP

stuart campbell, horacio lisazo, neil osburg, kelly beck

horacio Lizaso

8-goal uspa officers cup / / / / / / / / / /

Whiskey Pond toto collardin, Guillermo aguero, Brent Hamill, Ava Hinkson-Rose sar asota polo

202 3

|

106

mar. 25, 2022

MVP

Guillermo Aguero

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER ...

So is an AWESOME Marketing Plan.

ADVERTISING | MARKETING | PUBLIC RELATIONS | DIGITAL | SOCIAL MEDIA

LEARN FROM US. GROW WITH US. 941.351.0024 | grapeinc.com | Find Us On:

2022 WINNERS CIRCLE

12-Goal uspa regional classic southeastern / /

whiskey pond

feb. 6, 2022

MVP

Brent Hamill, Ramon Collardin, Valentino echezaretta, Guillermo Aguero, toto collardin

toto collardin

12-Goal USPA Commander-In-Chief Cup / / / mar. 6, 2022

Hillcroft Farm

MVP

Vaughn Miller, Jr., Mason Wroe, Nachi Viana, James Miller sar asota polo

202 3

Nachi Viana |

108

12-Goal USPA National Inter-Circuit challenge / /

hillcroft farm

MVP MVP

Vaughn Miller, Jr., Mason Wroe, Nachi Viana, James Miller

Serving Sarasota & Manatee County, Gabrielle & Ryan are committed to delivering excellence with 38 years of combined real estate experience. Whether you are in the market to buy or sell, we offer services from A-Z including residential sales, luxury homes, farm/ranch, land, and short-term rentals/corporate rentals.

mar. 27, 2022

nachi vianA

Connecting and supporting local moms while giving back to the Lakewood Ranch community for over 15 years.

Results Driven for People Who Want More.

Gabrielle Channell I Broker - CLHMS cell 941.586.6234 I fax 941.827.8956

channellrealestate-investments.com 9040 Town Center Pkwy. Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

Monthly Book Club

Holiday Events

Monthly Moms' Night Out

Join us at www.lwrmomsgroup.com

2022 WOMEN’S CHALLENGE A Flight / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /

Presented by

apr. 3, 2022

BPP

Malibu played by

Alyson Poor of Ocala Polo

Power Group Total Care

MVP

Kylie Sheehan, Guiliana Tarazona, Valentina Tarazona, Cecelia Cochran

Cecelia Cochran

B Flight / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /

apr. 2, 2022

BPP

spirit played by

Loryn Butterworth of La Irenita

North South Wealth Management / Landhope Kaitlyn Hornung, Dory Graham-Vannais, Camille Ricaud & Kerstie Allen

C Flight / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /

MVP Camille Ricaud

apr. 3, 2022

BPP

boom boom played by

Elizabeth Owen of Florado Polo

MVP

Epic Polo Sandra Bodo-McGowan, Mia Edgar, Hazel Hill, amanda Shelton sar asota polo

202 3

|

Hazel Hill 110

There’s nothing else like it

We understand the thrill that only comes with experiencing remarkable sporting events.

J.P. Morgan Private Bank is proud to sponsor the Sarasota Polo Club.

PLAN INVEST BORROW BANK

INVESTMENT PRODUCTS: • NOT FDIC INSURED • NO BANK GUARANTEE • MAY LOSE VALUE “J.P. Morgan Private Bank” is a brand name for private banking business conducted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its subsidaries wordwide.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and its affiliates (collectively “JPMCB”) offer investment products, which may include bank-managed investment accounts and custody, as part of its trust and fiduciary services. Other investment products and services, such as brokerage and advisory accounts, are offered through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (“JPMS”), a member of FINRA and SIPC. JPMCB, JPMS and CIA are affiliated companies under the common control of JPMorgan Chase & Co. © 2022 JPMorgan Chase & Co. All rights reserved.

Host your next private party at the Sarasota Polo Club From pig roasts to champagne toasts, the Sarasota Polo Club is available to host a variety of events.

– Corporate Outings – Weddings – – Fundraising Events – Private Parties –

E VENTS

– Catering – Cash or Hosted Bar, Venues available for 25 to 2,000 guests

For more information, email Info@SarasotaPolo.com

www.SarasotaPolo.com

2022 BEST PLAYING PONIES

6-GOAL MANATEE CUP

8-GOAL USPA GERRY ASCHINGER MEMORIAL

6-GOAL RINGLING CUP

8-GOAL USPA OFFICERS CUP

6-GOAL SARASOTA CHALLENGE

8-GOAL WAYNE BROWN MEMORIAL

Hoby | Francisco Llosa

Trevally | Neil Osburg

Scooby | Alan Martinez

Sole | toto collardin

Revancha | Sterling Giannico

si quierida | Horacio Lizaso sar asota polo

202 3

|

112

Presented By Celebrity Cruises - Marc Bokoff - Cruise Planners

CRUISEEPLANNERSSMARCCBOKOFFF marc@bookthatescape.com www.bookthatescape.com/srqluxurytravel Telephone:844-768-2799

12-GOAL USPA COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF CUP

Regia | toto Collardin

12-GOAL USPA NATIONAL INTER-CIRCUIT CHALLENGE

Carioca | Nachi viana

12-GOAL USPA REGIONAL CLASSIC SOUTHEASTERN

regia | toto collardin

Every Piece Comes With A Story Amish and American Made Furniture, Décor & Accessories Showroom and Design Center | 3709 N. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota

2022 AWARD WINNERS

SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD

Slade Sharpsteen

MVP AMATEUR

Max Stevens

(received by Trevor Niznik)

BEST GROOM AWARD

NEIL M. CHUR HORSEMANSHIP AWARD

Julian Montiel

Mason Wroe

MVP PROFESSIONAL

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER

Alan Martinez

Neil Osburg

Awards presented by Sarasota Polo Club Owner James Miller sar asota polo

202 3

|

114

STAND OUT HORSE OF THE SEASON

Toto Collardin’s Regia

BOBBY BARRY UMPIRE AWARD

Jamie Mirikitani

MAIN HEADQUARTERS 1751 Cattelmen Rd Sarasota, FL 34232 MAIN HEADQUARTERS 1751 Cattelmen Rd Sarasota, FL 34232

MAIN HEADQUARTERS: 1751 Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232 MAIN HEADQUARTERS: Cattlemen Sarasota, FL MAIN HEADQUARTERS: 17511751 Cattlemen Rd.,Rd,Sarasota, FL34232 34232 DOWNTOWN SARASOTA: 801 Apricot Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237 DOWNTOWN SARASOTA: Apricot Ave,Sarasota, Sarasota, FL 237 DOWNTOWN SARASOTA: 801 801 Apricot Ave., FL 34 34237

BEST STRING OF THE SEASON

Toto Collardin

A Passion for Polo Buckley Recognized For Sharing Her Love of the Sport

By Dan Guttenplan

H

elene Buckley is always looking for the next polo fanatic. Whether it is in the frozen food section at the grocery store, the lobby of a professional office, or the bar of a restaurant, she is constantly recruiting for guests to join her at her Sunday Polo tailgate space at the Sarasota Polo Club. Whenever she meets someone, she does not hesitate to ask them if they have been to the Sarasota Polo Club. If their answer is no, she instantly invites them to her tailgate party.

“The tailgate space comes with eight tickets, so I work to find seven guests each week,” Buckley says. “I provide a proper table and tablecloth set-up. I hang polo mallets from the frame of my tailgate tent.

My helmet and gloves are there on display, and I will even practice on the field with my foot mallet. When people ask me where I keep my horse, I tell them that it is at the bar.”

Buckley, a native of London, discovered the sport of polo in the mid-1990’s after moving to the Sarasota area. Now 72 years young, she works a full-time job as a receptionist at an engineering firm to help offset the costs of her weekly tailgates during the Sarasota Polo season.

Buckley treats every Sunday Polo match as an opportunity to share her love of polo with the next potential superfan. Upon arrival, she provides each of her guests with champagne, fried chicken, potato salad, a well-decorated tent matching the tailgate theme of the day, and a regulation polo ball souvenir. Part of her tailgate

2022 Best Fan Award Presented by Sarasota Polo Club Owner James Miller and Director of Polo Mason Wroe

experience also involves a tour of the Sarasota Polo Club grounds and an opportunity to meet some of the polo players involved in the match of the day. But her final challenge to her guests is an offer only three have taken her up on so far - to come and take a polo lesson with her at the Sarasota Polo School.

Every season, Sarasota Polo Club members and players join together in a season-end celebration and awards party. Inspired by Helene Buckley’s love and passion for polo, but also for her role in promoting the Sarasota Polo Club itself, the staff of the Sarasota Polo Club voted to create an award that recognized a fan for the first time in the history of the Sarasota Polo Club, and who better to receive the inaugural award. It was a unanimous vote to name Helene Buckley as the “Season of 2022 Best Fan.” Buckley was surprised with the award in the spring of 2022, at the conclusion of one of the Sunday Polo matches.

“It makes my heart glow,” Buckley said. “For them to recognize me was such an amazingly gracious thing to do. I cannot get enough of this sport. I am an addict and an aficionado, and it touches my heart to think that they thought of me.” sar asota polo

202 3

|

116

I cannot get enough of this sport. I am an addict and an aficionado, and it touches my heart to think that they thought of me.

INSECT MIST SYSTEMS

Protecting Outdoor Lifestyles and Horse Barns Since 2000 Sarasota: 941-360-1630 Tampa: 813-880-8900 Naples: 239-825-0330 www.mosquitomistfl.com Want the Best in Equine Sports Medicine?

Sarasota's Premier Equine Veterinary Service 8111 Blaikie Ct, Suite B, Sarasota, FL 34240 941-907-1147 | sarasotaequine@verizon.net

Now Offering Nose to Tail Care for Your Equine Partner Pro Stride APS | IRAP | PRP | Shockwave | Ultrasound Digital X-Rays | Endoscopy | Gastroscope

As an Award-Winning REALTOR with the #1 Selling Brand for 15+ years, I save my clients thousands with flexible rates Buying/Selling - Primary/Vacation Home I provide comprehensive services for all of your Real Estate needs.

Contact me to understand your options!

Carie Bradshaw

On COAST SALESThe

(941) 800-8822

www.cariebradshaw.com

Visit Our Website: sarasotaequineassociates.com

Certified Staging Professional Home Watch Specialist Military/VA & First Responder Programs

Broker Associate - RE/MAX Platinum Realty

GROUNDS MAP

N

Field 6

Field 5

Field 4

Field 3

Barn B

POLO SA RASOTAOL SCHO

Field 7

Barn A

Club Barns

hip Champions Field 1

Arena

Exercise Track

Barn C

118

|

202 3

sar asota polo

Field 2

Experience More Love, Joy, Peace and Abundance

Want more money with less stress?

Have success but want more fulfillment?

Seeking answers to spiritual stirrings?

Improve your mindset, game, business, money, life, relationships, family, and well-being with spiritual healing, insights, tools, and techniques.

ASSURANCE

TAX

ADVISORY

Dr. Joy S. Pedersen angels@JoyPedersen.com JoyPedersen.com 941.220.6245

S A R A S OTA | B R A D E N T O N 8 0 0 . 2 7 7 . 0 0 8 0 • M J C PA . C O M

Non Invasive Hair Loss Treatments • No Drugs • Non Toxic

• No Surgery • Plant Based

Cellustrious® Hair Restoration with 9+ Plant-Based Peptides In 120 Days, The Average Cellustrious® Patient Grew 30-50% New Hair With Our In-Office And Home Treatment.

Cellustrious® In-Office Professional Services We’ll uncover the root cause of your hair loss and create a treatment customized for you.

Mobile & Telehealth Treatment Services

call for consultation 727-231-6689

Work with Misti from the privacy of home, or with our Telehealth Package.

Offices in Lakewood Ranch, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, FL

Misti Barnes Trichologist, Physican Trainer

Cellustrious.com

CHAMPIONSHIP FIELD MAP Scoreboard

N

NW

Ble ac he r

Member’s Clubhouse North 1-44

South 1-27 VIP Midfield Terrace

VIP

MIDFIELD SEATING

Trophy Stand

Pavilion

Gift Shop

South Tent

North Tent

r he ac Ble NE

Chukker Lane

SE Ble ac he SOUTH ENTRANCE r

NORTH ENTRANCE

Reserved Tailgates Pavilion Clubhouse

Restrooms

Gift Shop

General Admission Reserved Tailgates VIP Midfield Seating

Concessions

First Aid

Drinks only available at select matches

sar asota polo

202 3

|

120

Fieldside Drive

North 45-77

South 28-67

Pavilion & E ast T Right at the ailgate Fork s

s ate Tailg & West ClubhouLseeft at the Fork

London Bus Terrace

Patio

VIP Tent

North Entrance

With Merrill, the bull always has your back Merrill believes the future is bullish, even in the most unpredictable of markets, because we’ve been here before.

And when you work with us, you get years of financial planning experience and a goal-oriented plan — all designed to help you through the uncertainty.

AD

The Franz Wealth Management Group John A. Franz, CRPC®, CPFA® Wealth Management Advisor Portfolio Manager 941.413.4517 john.franz@ml.com Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 6311 Atrium Drive Suite 100B Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 fa.ml.com/franzwmg

Investing involves risk.

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.

The College for Financial Planning Institutes Corp. owns the service marks Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorSM, CRPC®, and the CRPC® logo, and the certification marks Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor™, CRPC™, and the CRPC™ logo.

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. © 2022 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

MAP5078617 | AD-12-22-0047 | 472866PM-1122 | 12/2022

One Mission. A Wealth of Possibilities.

With over $8.5 Billion of Assets Under Management & services offered by over 120 financial professionals, whether it’s investment advice, choosing the right insurance, or establishing a trust, we have the size & depth to meet the needs of families & businesses.

Offices in Bradenton | Naples | West Palm Beach

Give us a call to learn more: 941-487-1764 NOT FDIC INSURED | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | MAY LOSE VALUE | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY | NOT A BANK DEPOSIT

Polo Is A Community Sport Like No Other. olo is not just a sport with a rich history; it’s a community. I am pleased to present you with this information regarding the Sarasota Polo Club, our sponsorship and advertising opportunities, sponsor polo ticket packages and group events. I have included a wide variety of information. Naturally I am happy to customize a package for you that best suits your needs.

The Sarasota Polo Club is one of the largest, most dedicated and enthusiastic polo communities in the world. An estimated 50,000 spectators will be on hand during our 2023 Sarasota Polo Season which will run January 1st, 2023 through April 30th, 2023.

The Sarasota Polo Club creates fun and exciting engagement opportunities with an affluent audience of 50,000 Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Manatee and Tampa Bay area polo spectators with an average net-worth of $1M. Falling into the top income and targeted interest groups, our audience is a superb market for your advertising, they are proven customers of high-end and luxury products and services.

Advertisers gain valuable exposure to a large, coveted audience and enjoy hospitality polo ticket packages to entertain clients, staff and guests.

Established in 1991 as the first development in the award-winning, master-planned community of Lakewood Ranch, the Sarasota Polo Club has a remarkable legacy. In 1922 our property was settled as a 28,000-acre timber ranch. Originally the cowboys who worked on our ranch began playing knockaround polo games in their free time. Riding their quarter horses with stock saddles, using make-shift equipment and knowing very little about polo, the cowboys played by their own rules. Rule #1 was the first rider to fall off their horse bought beer for the team, a tradition that remains in place today.

Eventually mallets, saddles and a few polo ponies were donated to the “cowboy games” and in 1991, a real polo club was born. Today our Club spans 170 acres. Our world-class facilities include: 45 private equestrian estates, 7 Bermuda grass polo fields, a regulation-sized polo arena, a half-mile all-weather training track, stick & ball fields, riding trails, on-site stabling for up to 300 horses, an on-site veterinary clinic, a member’s clubhouse and a midfield polo pavilion.

Please do not hesitate to contact me directly if I can assist you in any way. I look forward to welcoming you as our guests to experience the thrill of Sarasota Polo, “the fastest game on four feet!”

Ron Trytek Ron Trytek

DIR ECTOR OF SA LES & M A R K ETING

e: Ron@SarasotaPolo.com p: 941.704.8379 123

ABOUT OUR SPORT

60

POLO PONIES

ARE RIDDEN PER GAME.

Players use one or more horses each chukker.

4

WEEKS

65+

Thursday Sunset Polo

Happy Hour

PL AYING MEMBERS

Mar. 16 - April 6

Located in the award-winning communit y of Lakewood R anch, FL just 30 minutes to Siesta Key Beach and 20 minutes to SRQ A irpor t

ABOUT OUR FACILITIES

MILE All-Weather

Training Track

MIDFIELD

PAVILION

250 WITH FULL BAR hosting events up to

6

CHUKKERS

MINUTES

OR PERIODS IN A MATCH

PLAYERS

45 PER TEAM

300

YDS

IN A CHUKKER

X

160

YDS

THE SIZE OF A REGULATION POLO FIELD. Equivalent to ten football fields

PRIVATE EQUESTRIAN ESTATES

ABOUT OUR CLUB

18

Weeks of Sunday Polo Jan. 1 - April 30

W ELCOMING

50,000 S PE C TAT O R S E AC H S E A S O N

ON-SITE STABLING for up to

300 Horses

VIP

MIDFIELD PREMIUM SEATING

MEMBER’S CLUBHOUSE WITH FULL BAR hosting events up to

170 SPANNING

Perfectly Manicured Acres

Sarasota Polo Club Venues Our newly-remodeled Member’s Clubhouse is a popular site for weddings, parties, meetings and private events. Sit and gaze at the breaktaking view of the playing fields from our wrap around front porch; pull up to our brand new all-marble bar; or relax and enjoy the spectacular sunset from our back patio.

Seating for up to 100

Member’s Clubhouse

▶ 50’ x 50’ main room with private bar ▶ 64’ x 15’ wrap around porch ▶ 45’ x 40’ brick patio

Our midfield Polo Pavilion, a favorite venue for both polo and non-polo events, provides a stunning view of our Championship Polo Field. On Sundays during polo season, our Presenting Sponsors can be seen entertaining their guests while enjoying the up-close action from the Polo Pavilion’s reserved midfield seating.

Seating for up to 250

Polo Pavilion

▶ 40’ x 60’ covered open air facility with private bar ▶ 2,000+ square foot of patio area

Private Fieldside Tents

London Bus Terrace • Join the party at midfield on the North side at our VIP Midfield Seating zone.

• We offer a variety of premium ticket options, from plush chairs and Adirondack chairs to private party tables! There is something for everyone!

• Relax under a private fieldside tent.

• Perfect for corporate entertaining, small groups, social celebrations or charity fundraising events.

• Tents available for groups both small and large, 6-150 people.

• Catering options available through our local partners.

• Private bar service available upon request.

• Designated parking for your group.

Valet parking available upon request.

sar asota polo

202 3

|

126

Sarasota Polo Sponsorships Presenting Sponsorships

Advertising

▶ Season Title Sponsor WITH Season Naming Rights ▶ Sunset Polo Happy Hour Series Title Sponsor WITH Season Naming Rights ▶ Tournament Sponsors WITH Tournament Naming Rights ▶ Presenting Sponsors WITH Match Naming Rights ▶ Best Playing Pony Sponsor ▶ Member’s Event Sponsor

▶ Sarasota Polo Magazine ▶ Sarasota Polo Game Day Program ▶ Sarasota Polo Digital Spectator’s Guide ▶ Sarasota Polo Email Newsletter ▶ Polo Team Jersey Sponsor ▶ Staff Uniform Sponsor ▶ Polo Ticket Sponsor ▶ Souvenir Cup Sponsor ▶ Email, Website & Social Media posts

Group Events & Venue Rentals

Onsite & Spectator Engagement

▶ Midfield Pavilion ▶ Member’s Clubhouse ▶ VIP Midfield Terrace ▶ Group Tents ▶ Pre-match Private Polo Demonstrations ▶ VIP Cabanas ▶ Private Polo Matches ▶ VIP Season Tickets, Midfield Plush Seats ▶ VIP Reserved Fieldside Season Tailgates

▶ Vendor Village at Sunday Polo ▶ Onsite Signage ▶ Trophy Stand Signage ▶ PA Announcements ▶ Sidelines Sponsors ▶ Halftime Sponsors ▶ Contest Sponsors ▶ Trophy Sponsors

127

The

Seventh Chukker Congratulations to Fairfield Polo Club’s “Fresita” (Little Strawberry) who gave birth this December to a healthy filly nicknamed “Cerezita” (Little Cherry) at the Sarasota Polo Club.

sar asota polo

202 3

|

128

CELEBRITY EDGE ® IN ALASKA CELEBRITY CRUISES AND MARC BOKOFF-CRUISE PLANNERS CELEBRITY CRUISES AND MARC BOKOFF-CRUISE ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF THE SARASOTA POLOPLANNERS CLUB

ARE PROUD SPONSORS OF SARASOTA POLO WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN SARASOTA POLO @ SEA

Come along with Sarasota Polo as we sail to Alaska aboard Celebrity Edge® July 19–26, 2024 • Attend invitation-only events with top players and personalities • Visit stunning ports of call along Alaska’s Inside Passage • Enjoy the beautiful Celebrity Edge with All Included amenities • Explore Alaska with other Sarasota Polo fans and players To join Sarasota Polo @ Sea, contact Marc Bokoff-Cruise Planners at Marc.Bokoff@CruisePlanners.com or at 860-608-6095.

Booking with Marc Bokoff will ensure that you are part of the inaugural Sarasota Polo @ Sea voyage!

Scan below for more information:

©2022 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.

INSPIRATION STARTS HERE!

Winner! Best Showroom in the USA!

AWARD-WINNING

|

INTERIOR DESIGN

SARASOTA, FL 3055 FRUITVILLE COMMON BLVD. 941.900.HOME (4663)

|

FINE FURNISHINGS

NAPLES, FL 2777 TAMIAMI TRAIL N 239.261.HOME (4663) IB26001785

|

CLIVEDANIEL.COM

BOCA RATON, FL 1351 NW BOCA RATON BLVD. 239.261.HOME (4663)