Myopia Polo Magazine 2017

since 1888 / myopiapolo.org

2017 myopia polo magazine

2017 myopia polo magazine

Specialists in Premier Equestrian Properties

Ipswich

$9,900,000

Beverly Farms

$4,675,000

& C O M PA N Y

West Newbury

$2,450,000

‘Waldingfield’. Italianate Revival on 39+acres with period fresco walls, fine millwork. Also guest cottage, pool/pool house, 10-stall barn, paddocks. Direct access to Essex County Trail Association.

Waterfront Oasis. 4 acres with beach frontage, freshwater pond and in-ground pool next to sprawling fields. Mesmerizing views from this south-facing 5-bedroom, 7-bath home. A true sanctuary!

Indian Meadow Farm. 21-acres bordered by Greenbelt conservation protected land with riding trails.

State-of-the-art 36-stall Morton barn/indoor arena, renovated house, adjoining apartment.

Mimi Pruett & Josephine Baker

Alle Cutler

Joan Henderson

Essex

$1,680,000

Wenham

$1,395,000

Wenham

$1,295,000

The c. 1684 John Burnham House is a First Period Treasure. Carefully preserved and exuberantly enhanced, this stunning multi building, 9 acre lakefront estate.

Rare offering! Stately Carriage style 5-bedroom, 3.5bath home. Fully redesigned, renovated. Charm, character plus today’s amenities. Dramatic family room, chef ’s kitchen, screened porch.

Awesome opportunity. 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath Colonial on 3+ acres on Miles River. Beautiful fireplaced living and family rooms, chef ’s marble kitchen, sun room.

Open plan 3rd floor with bath.

Kristal Pooler

Deb Evans

Paula Gesmundo

Ipswich

$1,195,000

Hamilton

$1,185,000

Middleton

$989,000

Elegant, well-maintained home at Turner Hill. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 half-baths. Open 1st floor plan, fireplaced living room, luxury master suite, office/ library. Granite eat-in kitchen.

Exceptional home with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 1.84 acres. Custom improvements, infrastructure upgrades.

Commercial grade kitchen, luxury master suite, conservatory. Paddock, walled garden.

Joseph Fuller House. Original details, handcrafted paneling, wide plank heart pine floors, 5 fireplaces.

Includes 5+ acres for possible subdivision/ development.

Josephine Baker

Lynne Saporito & Beth Buckingham

Anne LeBlanc-Snyder

Ipswich

$875,000

Hamilton

$799,000

Boxford

$789,000

Recently renovated Colonial. 1.4 acres. 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths. Newer granite kitchen, master bath. Living room, den, family room, exercise room, porch, decks.

Heated in-ground pool, garage.

Lovely Gambrel across from Patton Park abuts Myopia Hunt Club. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Open concept, fireplaced living room, dining room, family room.

Bedroom suite with separate entrance.

Beautiful renovated, expanded East Boxford 4-bedroom, 3.5 bath Cape. Kitchen has dual fuel range, stone countertops, seating area has gas fireplace.

Finished lower level, 3/4 bath. Garage.

Mimi Pruett

Mimi Pruett

John Adams

Experience the J Barrett Difference www.jbarrettrealty.com

Prides Crossing 978.922.2700 • Beverly 978.922.3683 • Ipswich 978.356.3444 Manchester-by-the-Sea 978.526.8555 • Gloucester 978.282.1315 • Marblehead 781.631.9800

Woodruff Brown Architectural Photography

r e s id e ntial co mme r cial inte r io r d e s ig n

BEAUTIFUL BARNS

captain’s letter

D E S E RV E E Q U A L LY B E A U T I F U L WINDOWS AND DOORS

from Marvin and Integrity

this summer marks the 129th season of polo on myopia’s gibney field—a remarkable tradition

CA L L U S TO DAY For personalized design plans and material packages for your dream barn.

St al l Barn s I n d oor Ri d i n g A re n as Storag e B u i l d i n g s Ru n - i n S h e d s Cu p ol as Dai r y Barn s

129 SHEEP DAVIS ROAD • PEMBROKE • NH 603.224.7483

LUMBER BARNS Division of BELLETETES, INC.

Belletete's_Polo_Magazine_Ad.indd 1

121 WHITTIER HWY • ROUTE 25 MOULTONBOROUGH • NH 603.253.4404

Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, captain/myopia polo

3/21/17 10:46 AM

Photograph by Bob Packert

A&B Barns, a division of Belletetes, has been designing beautiful and functional barns, riding arenas and storage buildings for nearly 40 years.

and one that we are pleased to share with you, our supporters and spectators every Sunday from early June to late September.

This summer we have an active season of polo planned—including national tournaments such as the 12 Goal Chairman’s Cup in July and the 8 Goal Forbes Cup in August. As we do every summer, we will host tournaments named in honor of some of our most historic Myopia equestrian families such as Ayer, Poor, Tuckerman and Little. We will also host international matches for the Harvard team and Team USPA—as we have done in recent summers. The international match with Team USPA is now known as the Will Tankard Memorial in honor of a beloved member of our polo community we lost in 2015.

I am pleased to report that Kim Maguire, who has supervised our operations for the past two summers, is continuing as our manager responsible for overseeing all polo activity. I am also pleased to have Federico Wulff working with us to develop our younger and novice players and coordinate our tournament activity.

Myopia Polo would not be as vibrant and successful without the efforts of our dedicated staff and volunteers.

In particular, I’d like to thank our volunteer leadership, which includes Nick Snow, Peter Poor, and Dave Strouss—long-time Myopia polo players and committee members—as well as Denny Ryus who oversees all of our marketing, our Treasurer, Stephen Willet, and our longtime committee member Dan Sears for all the work they do behind the scenes.

We encourage you to follow Myopia Polo throughout the season. Updates on schedules, games, and lessons are on our website, myopiapolo.org, or by calling 978-468POLO. You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Best wishes,

978-468-7199 WWW.KMDKITCHENS.COM

SERVING

BOTH COASTS SINCE

SHOWROOM,

2006

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

contents

2017 myopia polo magazine

2 / captain’s letter 64 / spotlight: lyle graham

46

8

26

42

features

agenda

style

myopia

46 / the next generation

8 / 2017 Schedule

26 / sunglasses

38 / myopia polo club

The interscholastic polo program brings youth, talent, and experience together. by bill burke 54 / ready! set! action!

A visual chronicle of the most thrilling moments of Myopia’s 2016 season. photographs by andrew katsampes 60 / the will tankard memorial tournament

On July 31, 2016, Team USPA and Team South America played to a fitting 7-7 tie in a fast, competitive, and emotional game.

4 myopia polo 2014

10 / the players

A rundown of the Myopia Polo players. plus Polo 101.

18 / rules of the game

Polo’s rules and violations.

20 / gear

Gear for players and mounts.

22 / myopia hunt club

Myopia Hunt is a blend of athleticism and tradition.

Take cover in style with a fetching pair of frames.

28 / accessories

Timeless summer watches; stunning jewelry combos.

32 / women’s fashion

Pick a pretty topper for the season’s key matches.

42 / u.s. polo association

The United States Polo Association: over a century of innovation, inclusion, and tradition.

36 / scene

24 / Youth polo

The National Youth Tournament Series.

Myopia Polo personalities snapped out and about, supporting their beloved sport, and celebrating major milestones and achievements.

25 / equine medicine

32 / instagram

An overview of the welfare of Myopia’s polo ponies.

Member enthusiasm keeps the country’s oldest polo club thriving after 128 years.

Hasthtag it: #myopiapolo.

ON THE COVER Longmeadow/Giddy Up’s Ezquiel Zubiaurre playing in the 2016 USPA Governors 6-goal Cup final. Longmeadow/ Giddy Up defeated Del Rancho/Chanticleer, 7-5, on Gibney Field on August 28, 2016.

Photograph Andrew Katsampes

photographs, from left, jared charney; andrew katsampes; glenn scott; carol morocco

BOSTON | NATICK | BURLINGTON | MGBWHOME.COM

2017 myopia polo magazine editor

Bill Burke design director

Robert F. Parsons/Seven Elm sevenelm.com image specialist

Adam DeTour contributing artists

Jared Charney, Fawn DeViney, Elizabeth Hedley, Andrew Katsampes, David Lominska, Carol Morocco, James Nelon, Bob Packert, Lysa Pelletier, Glenn Scott, Shawn Tinkham contributing writers

Bill Burke, Brion O’Connor myopia polo committee

Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, Captain of Polo Kim Maguire, Polo Manager & Equine Welfare Committee Chairman Nicholas B. Snow, USPA Northeastern Circuit Lieutenant Governor & Polo Committee Member Federico Wulff, Tournament Manager David Strouss, USPA Delegate & Tournament Committee Representative Stephen L. Willett, Treasurer Dan H. Sears, Club Representative Peter Poor, Official Announcer & Tournament Committee Representative Erica Ames, Corporate Sponsorships Terri Campbell, Polo Committee & Equine Welfare Committee Bill Coke, Polo Committee Member Kurt Miller, Polo Committee Member Michael D. Ryus, Marketing Director website

myopiapolo.org facebook & twitter

Myopia Polo President/Publisher

Sharron McCarthy group Advertising Sales Representative

Kimberly Lencki 603-413-5154, klencki@mcleancommunications.com Advertising Sales Representatives

Talman Hauch 617-921-7033, talhauch@gmail.com

Giblees is New England’s largest men’s store with over 11,000 square feet of world famous brands, in-house tailor shop and free alterations!

Brands include Brioni, Canali, Peter Millar, Zanella, Paul & Shark, Giorgio Armani, Robert Talbott, Tommy Bahama, Robert Graham, Johnnie-O, Psycho Bunny, True Grit and many others.

Kristen Gillespie 978-887-5828, k_gillespie1@verizon.net Creative Director

John Goodwin Production Manager

Jodie Hall Office Manager

Mista McDonnell Proofreader

Liisa Rajala subscriptions

For additional copies or subscription customer service, email kgagnon@mcleancommunications.com published by

McLean Communications, Custom Publishing A Division of Yankee Publishing, Inc.; Dublin, NH 150 Dow Street, Manchester, NH 03101 603-624-1442, mcleancommunications.com

85 Andover Street, Route 114, Danvers 978-774-4080 giblees.com

POLO magazine is published for Myopia Polo by McLean Communications. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the magazine; McLean Communications is not responsible for errors or omissions. © Copyright 2017, McLean Communications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission of McLean Communications is prohibited.

Welcome to the 2017 Season Match time is 3 p.m. on Sundays on Gibney Field.

Gates open at 1:30 p.m. schedule subject to change

may 29 Opening Day jun 4 Joseph Poor/

Stan Bradford Cup

jun 11 USPA NYTS Qualifier jun 18 Neil Ayer Cup jun 25 Agassiz Club Cup jul 2 Harrison Cup 4-8 Goal jul 9 Harrison Cup 4-8 Finals jul 16 USPA Chairman’s Cup

8-12 Goal

jul 23 USPA Chairman’s Cup

8-12 Goal Final Donald V. Little Cup jul 29 Polo Ball jul 29 Robert Daniels Cup jul 30 Team USPA vs.

South America aug 2

Forbes Cup 4-8 Goal Forbes Cup 4-8 Goal Finals aug 20 USPA Governor’s Cup

4-8 Goal aug 27 USPA Governor’s Cup

4-8 Goal Finals aug 13

sep 3 Captain’s Cup sep 10

Montechristo Cup

sep 17 Harvard Invitational sep 24 Last Chukker Cup

8 myopia polo 2017

Tournament Schedule JUN 10-11

USPA NYTS Qualifier JUn Agassiz Club Cup 23-25 jul Crossman Cup 4-29 2-Goal JUn 28- Harrison Cup 4-8 Goal jul 9 entry date: wednesday, june 21 JUl USPA Chairman’s Cup 12-23 8-12 Goal

entry date: friday, july 7 jul Team USPA vs.

30 South America aug Tuckerman Cup 1-29 4-Goal aug Forbes Cup 4-8 Goal 2-13 entry date: friday, july 28 aug USPA Governor’s Cup 16-27 4-8 Goal

entry date: friday, august 11

photograph by andrew katsampes

ag e n da

the players

Polo Patrons and Captains The people who make polo at Myopia possible.

barrett coke

erica L. ames

franz colloredomansfeld

terri campbell

Franz ColloredoMansfeld Captain Franz grew up riding

and hunting with Myopia. He has won the Myopia Hunter Trials numerous times. Over the past decade he has enjoyed playing polo with his children.

He is the Captain of Myopia Polo and the sponsor of the Black Oak Polo team. Franz runs an international real estate investment firm based in Boston. A rated

Erica L. Ames Erica has been an avid horseback rider for most of her life, but discovered polo in 2013 when she took beginner polo lessons at Stage Hill Polo.

Since then, she has become actively involved in Myopia Coaching League and is a huge supporter of all aspects of the sport. As Myopia’s Director of Corporate Sponsorships, Erica is passionate about sharing the unique Myopia experience with new and returning patrons alike.

terri campbell Terri is now a regular at Myopia, after playing in Newport

10 myopia polo 2017

bill coke

for 10 years. The sponsor of the Folly Fields Polo Team, she has played in tournaments in Chile, Ireland and South Africa, and competes at Gulfstream Polo Club in Florida in the winter. When she’s not with the ponies, she is a portfolio manager in Boston. -1 goal

Barrett Coke A Myopia player since the age of 12, Barrett (20) is passionate about the sport. Barrett was honored to have been chosen as an all-star National Youth Polo Player for the third time.

He went on to win the National Youth Polo Championships in Denver, CO playing on the Northeast regional team. Barrett plays for the Coke family’s Chanticleer Farm Polo Team.

He loves competing alongside his father and brother. 1 goal

Bill Coke An intense and competitive athlete, Bill has played polo at Myopia for more than 20 years.

The sponsor of the Chanticleer Farm Polo Team, Bill is known for his powerful and spirited defensive play. He is thrilled to play with his sons, Hamilton and Bar-

hamilton coke

2017 polo patrons

carlos coles

John Adam, John Adams, Erica Ames & Scott Pugh, Neil Ayer, William Ayer, Bryn Barror, Doralynne Bibby, Mary Blair, John Bos, Michael Bucci, Stephen Burr, Terri Campbell, Russell Clark, Benjamin Collins, Susanna Colloredo-Mansfeld, Sandra Dunstan, MaryAnn Esdaile, Scott Fabyan & Marlene Pippins, Winnie Gray, Gary & Patricia Johnstone, Josh Lerner, William Meaney, Kurt Miller, Allison O’Neil, Anthony Pearson, Donald Pitman, Pond Hill Farm, Carlos Riva, Scott & Amanda Roberts, Evan Rochman, MD, Stacey Scott, Stonewall Farm, David Strouss, Thomas Sutro Whidden, Robert Wilkinson

rett. A managing director with JP Morgan, Bill lives in Topsfield with his wife, Wendy, and sons Hamilton and Barrett. A rated

Hamilton Coke An engaged, and skilled player on his family’s Chanticleer Farm Polo Team, Hamilton is a Computer Engineering student at Santa Clara University Engineering School in Silicon Valley, CA, Hamilton is happiest when freestyle skiing, mountain biking, surfing, playing rugby, lacrosse and programming the next big App. A rated

Carlos Coles A resident of Wenham who has played polo for more than 35 years, Carlos learned the game from his father Charlie—a Myopia equestrian legend. A big hitter and very competitive player, he plays with speed and abandon. After spending a number of years playing for multiple sponsors at Gulfstream in Florida, Wellington, Vero Beach, and Ocala during the winter months, Carlos is rededicating his efforts to the continued growth of Myopia Polo. His work with younger generations

All tournament photographs by andrew katsampes

captains of myopia polo, past and present Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld

2011 (co-captain)–present W. Albert Ellis 2009–2010, 2011 (co-captain) Lyle Graham 2001–2008 Michael S. Fawcett 1996–2000 Neil St. John Raymond 1986–1996 Robert A. Wilkinson 1981–1983 Donald V. Little 1968–1981, 1983–1986 Neil R. Ayer 1960–1967 Forrester A. Clark 1937–1940, 1946–1959 Fredrick H. Prince, Jr. 1924–1925 Fredrick Ayer 1921–1923, 1929–1936, 1941–1945 Neil W. Rice 1920 Henry P. McKean, Jr. 1919 Charles G. Rice 1918 James H. Proctor 1917 Q.A. Shaw McKean 1916, 1927–1928 Quincy A. Shaw II 1914 Dudley P. Rogers 1908–1912, 1915, 1926 F. Blackwood Fay 1902–1903, 1907, 1913 Rodolphe L. Agassiz 1893–1901, 1904–1906 R. M. Appleton 1891–1892

Cyril Harrison 8-goal Cup july 13, 2016 Black Oak def. Longmeadow/Fetlock Futures 12-9

Polo 101

annie colloredomansfeld

seppi colloredomansfeld

justin e. daniels

albert ellis

johann colloredomansfeld

simon colloredomansfeld

francisco “pancho” eddy

whitney ellis

rules of the game and a few other basics.

glossary Approach Shot: A long shot taken to get the ball close to the opponent’s goal.

Back shot: When a player hits the ball backwards, can be played on both the nearside and the offside.

Boards: Wooden barriers placed alongside a polo field to keep the ball in the playing area.

Bump: When two riders come into contact with each other, with the objective of knocking or pushing the other rider off the line of the ball so they are unable to hit it.

Also called a ride-off.

Center line: Middle of field where the ball is thrown in after each goal.

Crossing: When one rider cuts across another player’s right of way.

Cut shot: When a player makes a stroke that is at an angle to the direction in which he or she is riding.

Divot Stomp: A halftime tradition in which spectators enter the field to stomp divots made by the horses back into the ground.

Drive: A player hitting the ball either forward or backward along the same parallel line the horse is taking.

Forehand: When a player hits the ball forward, can be played on both the nearside and the offside.

Free Hit: For certain rule violations, a player will be allowed a free and uncontested hit at the ball.

Goal: When the ball crosses between the two goal posts, resulting in a score.

Hook: A defensive tactic used when a player makes contact with an offensive player’s mallet before it hits the ball.

Knock In (a.k.a. Hit In): When the offensive team hits the ball »

Chairmans Cup 8-goal final July 24, 2016 Rancho/Black Oak def. Chanticleer/Pony-Up 11-8

helps feed Myopia polo and the USPA with new sponsors. His 12-year-old daughter Padan is an aspiring equestrian. 1 goal (out) 2 goals (arena)

Annie ColloredoMansfeld Annie is a rising senior at Groton School where she is a varsity cross-country runner and rower. She is an accomplished young rider and has competed in three phase events in Massachusetts and Vermont. The past few summers she has been playing with her family and has joined the junior program at Myopia. B rated

Johann ColloredoMansfeld Johann is graduating from Harvard this spring, where he was captain of the Harvard Polo Team. Over the past four years, Johann has played in tournaments in China, Italy and France. In 2013, he was selected for the U19 National Championship Tournament Team for the Northeast.

Johann plays for the Black Oak and Myopia teams. 1 goal

Seppi ColloredoMansfeld Seppi grew up riding and playing polo with Myopia.

Seppi is a former three-year captain of the men’s Yale Polo

Team. He has played in tournaments throughout the Northeast and in England on historic Guards Field at Windsor.

Seppi was also a rower and a member of the Yale Lightweight Crew Team. Seppi now lives in New York City and works in the real estate development business. 1 goal

Simon ColloredoMansfeld Simon is a rising junior at the University of Virginia where plays on the polo team at one of the country’s top rated college programs. In 2013 Simon was selected for the U19 National Tournament Team for the Northeast. A naturally talented horseman, Simon is a graduate of the junior polo program at Myopia and plays for Black Oak and Myopia. 1 goal

benji e. daniels A summer resident of Ipswich, Benji, 17, attends St. Andrews High School in Boca Raton, Fla. He has been playing youth polo in Wellington on the Pony Express Polo team under the watchful eye of Tomas Goti and Julian deLusaretta, who have taught him well. Benji is calm, cool and collected on the field, where he has continuously improved his ability to take the man and hit a solid backhander. His ball control and smooth swing

seem to improve with each tournament he plays. 1 goal

justin e. daniels A summer resident of Ipswich, Justin, 18, lives in Wellington, Fla., and attends St. Andrews High School in Boca Raton, where he will be a senior. He has been playing polo for more than seven years, and is an excellent rider with a hard-hitting sense of urgency on the field. Justin was selected to play on the first-ever USPA National Youth Tournament for the winning Florida team in 2013. 1 goal

landen e. daniels A summer resident of Ipswich, Landen, 14, is the youngest of six polo-playing brothers.

He has made quite a name for himself among the polo community in Wellington, Fla. An accomplished soccer player, Landen plays travel soccer when he is not on a horse.

Playing polo for seven years (two years without a mallet) Landen has developed a keen understanding of where to be on the polo field—both defending as well as making key offensive plays. A rated

Francisco “Pancho” Eddy An Argentina native, Pancho spent summer holidays fly-

2017 myopia polo 11

ag e n da

jonathan graham

the players

lyle graham

Jacek “yaz” K. grotnik

kimberly maguire

grace grotnik

patricia johnstone

bob mehm

fishing in San Martin de los Andes, where he met Chuck Elmes of Blue Sky Polo Club, a meeting that lead to a job playing polo in the U.S. In addition to Myopia, where he plays with Rick Salter, Pancho has played in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Florida.

He consistently finds success at Myopia and has captured every major tournament at the club over the past five years, thanks to his accurate passing and shots on goal. 4 goals

with his son, Maverick, and is excited about whacking the ball around at Myopia this summer.

Albert Ellis

Jonathan Graham

An experienced horseman, Albert grew up hunting and three-day-event riding at Myopia before becoming a polo player. Albert served as polo captain from 2007-2011 and has been a longtime fixture on the Myopia fields.

He lives in Gloucester with his wife, Anne-Seymour, and their three daughters, Isabella, Caroline, and Jane. 1 goal

Having started polo in Myopia’s junior program, Jon has played on his father Lyle’s Wintercreek team, captained the Colorado State University team, and played professionally in Aspen and on the East Coast. One of the biggest hitters at Myopia, Jon is always a threat to score from the middle of the game. 2 goals

John Ellis

A former Myopia captain, Lyle has been an active player for the last 35 years (28 seasons at Myopia) on the family’s Winter Creek team and played

John is new to the sport of polo but brings a wealth of equestrian experience to the playing field. He resides in Gloucester

12 myopia polo 2017

B rated

Whitney Ellis Whitney will be returning to the fields of Myopia this summer. He has come back to his roots here on the North Shore after stints in Ireland, getting his Master’s degree in English, and in New York, pursuing journalistic and literary endeavors. 2 goals

Lyle Graham

competitively at a 5-goal USPA handicap. Taking a sabbatical from horses and polo, Lyle focuses on family activities, farm projects, boating, and motorcycling. He lives in Rowley with his wife, Donna, and sons, Jon and Ian.

grace ellen grotnik Grace is one of Myopia’s junior players. She started playing polo at 10-years-old and entered her first tournament at 13. Currently 15-years-old, she has played polo on grass, in the arena and on snow. Some of her achievements include being named USPA NE Regional Middle School All-Star, and Women’s MVP of the 2015 Bukovina Polo Snow Masters.

Grace was presented the Dr. Billy Linfoot Award and named the Most-Improved Club Player at Myopia in 2016. B Outdoor / A Arena Women’s A Outdoor / +2 Arena

Jacek “Yaz” K. Grotnik Yaz has played across the U.S. and internationally in various low and medium goal tournaments up the 14-goal level.

He was captain of the Polish National Polo Team at the 8th

Polo 101, cont. over the back line wide of goal.

The defending team then plays the ball from the point at which it went over the back line.

Line of the Ball: The path along which the ball travels after a hit, this line extends beyond the ball as well. line judge: Assists the umpires by signaling whether the ball went between or outside the goal posts.

Neck Shot/Tail Shot: The former is played under the horse’s neck; the latter, beneath and behind the tail.

Offside/Nearside: When seated on a horse, the offside refers to the player’s right side, and the nearside refers to his or her left side.

Tack Time: Stop in play called by umpire if a player’s tack is broken.

Tailgating: One of the most celebrated polo pastimes, complete with picnic baskets, gourmet snacks, and plenty of beverages.

Throw-in: When an umpire bowls the ball between teams to start play.

positions A polo match pits two teams of four against each other. The players on each team are numbered 1 through 4, with each number representing a general role as follows: 1. Goal Scorer. This player pushes forward aggressively and seeks openings into which teammates can hit. This player also marks the opposing team’s number 4, or Back.

2. Energizer. The Energizer is always involved in play while quarterbacking the offense and neutralizing the opponent’s top player.

3. Field Captain. The Field Captain typically is the best player on the team and directs the flow of the game.

4. Defender. The Defender plays at the back of the game to prevent the other team from scoring.

Tuckerman 4-goal tournament July 29, 2016 Pony-Up def. Longmeadow 8-4

handicap descriptions.

max mehm

kurt miller

mike noll

bryan parrott

olivia mehm

reed miller

marcos onetto

alyson poor

Every player on the field carries a handicap from -2 to 10 goals based on his or her skill level and horsemanship, as determined by a national handicap committee.

A handicap of 10 represents the top of the game.

the rules Object of the Game. The objec-

tive of the game is simple: Score as many goals as possible and win by outscoring the opposing team.

Playing the Game. Because polo involves horses that weigh thousands of pounds, all moving at high speeds toward the same ball, the concept of “right of way” is the most important concept in the game of polo and is designed to keep the game safe for both horse and rider.

Right of Way and Riding Off.

The rider who is following the ball on its exact line, or who has the least angle to reach the ball and is taking it on the offside without committing a foul, has the right of way. A rider can be ridden off the ball. Riding off is also allowed even if the other player is not playing the ball. But riding off is not allowed if the rider comes in to the other rider at a dangerous angle. When one rider rides off another, he or she is not allowed to hit, strike, or push off with the hand, forearm, elbow, or head, but he or she is allowed to push off with the upper arm. A rider is not allowed to grab another player, their equipment, or their horse. A rider is not allowed to weave back and forth in front of another rider, thus forcing the other rider to change the speed at which he or she is riding.

Crossing. It is cause for a foul » should a rider cross another Cyril Harrison 8-goal Cup aug. 3, 2016 Giddy-Up def. Pony Up 5-4

Manipur International Tournament in India and represented the USA Men’s Team in their win of the 2015 Bukovina Polo Snow Masters. In 2016, his team won the USPA Border Circuit Amateur Cup. He lives at Husaria Farm in Ipswich and is a patron of Myopia Polo and the Husaria Polo Team. Yaz is the Team Advisor to the Stage Hill and Myopia Interscholastic Polo Teams and a USPA Certified Umpire. A Outdoor / +2 Arena

Patricia Johnstone

Bob Mehm Bob is a former 3-goal player and is in his 34th season of polo. This year, he has played in major cups in Dubai, Thailand, Switzerland, the UK, Nepal, the Caribbean, and at Myopia. He lives in Geneva, Switzerland, where he plays at the Vetey Polo Club, and looks forward to competing this summer in Europe and at Myopia, as well as playing with his children, Max and Olivia. 1 goal

Patricia has had a lifelong passion for horses which spurred a love for polo three years ago via Stage Hill Polo. Now she and her husband, Gary, owners of Stones Throw Farm in Ipswich, are enthusiastic supports of all aspects of the game. She is actively involved in the Myopia Coaching League, Winter Arena League, and a supporter of the Myopia Polo Interscholastic Team.

Max Mehm

kimberly maguire

Olivia Mehm

Kimberly started her polo career in 1996 as Byfield Polo’s first youth player. After a short hiatus from polo to attend university, she has returned to Myopia for her third year.

Kimberly has achieved a USPA Level 1 Certified Polo Instructor and enjoys playing and coaching with the Myopia Coaching League. a rated

Olivia has played several seasons at Myopia Polo as a junior player and will join the junior program after her warmup in June at her home club in Geneva. Olivia studied at Deerfield Academy, where she founded an interscholastic polo team. She competed on the cross-country, squash, and tennis teams. B rated

This year marks Max’s second season at Myopia. Last year, Max played the Coach’s League on Harvard horses, and competed in the NYTS tournament. He will play at his home club in Geneva, Switzerland, in June. Max studies at the Fessenden School in Newton, where he competes in soccer, squash, and rowing. B rated

Kurt Miller A veteran player and horseman at Myopia, Kurt brings steady play and formidable competition to the game. During the winter, he often plays in Chile, where many of his horses are from. Kurt was inspired to follow in his father’s footsteps, who also played at Myopia.

This summer, Kurt looks forward to another year playing at Myopia and joining forces with his son Reed, for a third season, on their Longmeadow Team. Kurt’s wife, Jackie is actively involved in planning events for the club. 0 goals

reed miller Reed is a third generation Myopia Polo player. He grew up around the Myopia Polo fields, foot mallet in hand, watching his father, Kurt, play, as his grandfather played before him.

He began playing the sport with Myopia’s Junior program and Stage Hill Polo. Then two years ago, at age 13, Reed teamed up alongside his father, on their Longmeadow Team, and won his first tournament game. This winter, Reed played for a second year on the USPA Interscholastic Team, Myopia/ Stage Hill Rough Riders and was honored as an all-star at the NE Prelims at Yale. He also travels to South America to play polo. b rated

2017 myopia polo 13

ag e n da

amanda poor

peter poor

neil “jed” raymond, jr.

steve rudolph

estanislao “estani” puch

thomas rizzo

rick salter

mike noll A lifelong competitive athlete, Mike’s passion for horses began at an early age. His family owned thoroughbred racehorses in Pennsylvania and Florida. Mike is the founder and CEO of Hamilton Capital Partners, a Boston-based private equity firm. B rated

marcos onetto Marcos has been playing here at Myopia for the past 2 season. Rated at 4 goals, Marcos is a speed demon on the field with a fast group of horses. He won the Cyril Harrison 8-Goal and Chairman’s Cup 12-Goal last year. 4 goals

Bryan Parrott Bryan Parrott, DVM, owner of Parrott Equine Associates, LLC, has been practicing equine veterinary medicine for 30 years. Bryan has been playing polo for 20 years. As cofounder of the Myopia Equine Welfare Committee, Bryan’s mission is the health and wellbeing of the horses. 1 goal

Alyson Poor Alyson’s career with animals

14 myopia polo 2017

the players

started at age seven, when she began riding and playing polo at her father’s polo school in Hamilton. This past year, Alyson graduated with a degree in animal science from the University of Kentucky, where she also played on the polo team. 0 goals

Myopia for the last seven years. He divides his time between the U.S. and Argentina, where he runs El Rincon del Polo Club & School outside Buenos Aires in the winter months. 2 goals

Amanda Poor

Jed grew up playing polo with his dad, former Myopia captain Ted Raymond, for Maplecroft Farms, and has played in the U.S., Argentina, and the UK. Jed is a graduate of Middlebury College and Harvard Graduate School of Design. A gifted athlete, he excelled in lacrosse, which he played professionally after graduation. 2 goals

Myopia’s highest handicapped woman, Amanda is an avid athlete from Ipswich. A Merrimack College graduate, she plays for Stage Hill, as well as at Myopia. Rated A.5

Peter Poor Peter Poor has played polo at Myopia for 55 years, and his two daughters also play.

Peter runs Stage Hill Polo School in Newbury and is the Northeast Region Governor for the USPA. He has been a central figure at Myopia in many capacities and is the announcer of Sunday games. 0 goals

Estanislao “Estani” Puch With a handicap of 3 in Argentina and 2 in the U.S., Estanislao has played at

Neil “Jed” St. John Raymond, Jr.

Polo 101, cont. rider in the right of way if they come close enough to be dangerous, or cause a rider and horse to slow up. A rider in possession of the ball can’t be crossed.

Hooking Sticks. A rider is allowed to hook another rider’s stick, as long as he or she and the ball are on the same side of the opponent’s horse and the rider is about to hit the ball. A rider is allowed to hook another rider’s stick if he or she is directly behind an opponent, but the stick must be below the level of the opposing rider’s shoulder.

Stick Misuse. 1) A rider may not reach across or under an opposing rider’s horse to hit. 2) A player is not allowed to use a stick in an unsafe way or in a way that obstructs or hinders another rider or horse. 3) A rider is not allowed to hit the legs of an opposing player’s horse.

Ball Out of Play. A ball is out of play when: 1) It is hit over the boards or sidelines. 2) The ball is hit over the back line by the opposing team.

Stoppage of Play. An umpire will stop play if: 1) A rider is hurt or a horse is injured. 2) A rider loses his or her helmet, provided that no team will gain from a stoppage of play. 3) A horse’s equipment becomes damaged, presenting potential danger to other horses or riders. (Play is not stopped if a rider falls off his or her horse and is uninjured.)

Fouls and Penalties. Umpires decide the severity of fouls and which penalties are appropriate. Therefore, one particular foul does not have a specific penalty associated with it. Below are penalties listed in the order of their severity. Team captains are the only players who can discuss issues that arise during a game with an umpire.

thomas rizzo Tom has been playing polo for 4 years and riding for 6.

He is looking forward to playing in the Myopia Coaching League again this year. He is an engineer by day and a pilot and sailor by weekend. b rated/ myopia coaching league

Steve Rudolph In his fifth season at Myopia Polo, Steve is lifelong New Englander,

Forbes Cup 8-goal tournament aug. 7, 2016 Black Oak/Chanticleer def. Giddy-Up 10-9

Penalties. 1) A goal awarded

to the team that has been fouled. Given for the most dangerous fouls. 2) A free hit given to the fouled team, taken from 30 yards from the front of the goal. Given for dangerous fouls.

3) A free hit given to the fouled team, taken from 40 yards from the front of the goal. Given for less dangerous fouls. 4) A free hit given to the fouled team, taken from 60 yards out. Given for moderate fouls. 5) A free hit for the fouled team, taken from where the foul occurred. This penalty is given for mild fouls.

6) Same as above, but the free hit is taken from the center of the field. 7) A 60-yard hit taken opposite from where the ball crossed over the back line; this is given for a defender hitting the ball over their back line.

the myopia polo teams Black Oak: The family team of the

Colloredo-Mansfelds, Black Oak is anchored by Will Tankard and a rotating roster of family members.

Blackburn Sunset: The Berube family team played competitively at Myopia last season.

Chanticleer: The Coke family team has competed successfully since the 1990s at Myopia and at Aiken.

Del Rancho: Dave Strouss’s team has successfully competed at every level of Myopia Polo, including winning the 12-goal championship.

Giddy Up: Relatively new to Myopia, Terri Campbell’s team is becoming a force to be reckoned with.

EFG: Bob Mehm’s team and employer, EFG has sponsored teams around the globe—and now, at Myopia. » Neil Ayers/Governors 6-goal Cup aug. 21, 2016 Giddy Up/Longmeadow def. Pony Up 9-5

C.B. scherer

nick snow

anna weinburgh

federico wulff

crocker snow, jr.

dave strouss

rob wilkinson

philip zocco

residing in Newburyport with his wife, Sarah. When not playing polo, Steve is a strategy consultant to telecommunications and media companies in the U.S. and Latin America. B rated

Rick Salter Rick started playing polo at Myopia in 2001. He plays nearly year-round, as he owns a farm in Aiken, S.C., and plays in Florida during the winters and Argentina in the fall. Rated B.5

C.B. Scherer C.B. joined Team USPA in 2010 and now works in finance in Boston, but continues his passion for polo and teaching at Myopia. A third generation polo player from Florida, C.B. played for the UVA squad and was a three time Men’s National Intercollegiate Champion. In 2012, he was a finalist at the East Coast Open on the Airstream Polo Team, a Harrison Cup winner and MVP, and winner of the Eduardo Moore 12-goal. 2 goals

Crocker Snow, Jr. Myopia’s senior polo veteran, Crocker started playing in college during the rebirth of polo at Myopia in the early 1960s and has played ever since, broken only by years living abroad. Crocker has played in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America.

Once rated at 4 goals, he now typically plays the back position and is co-coach of Harvard’s polo team. 1 goal

Nick Snow The highest-rated home-grown player at Myopia, Nick played with his father and older brothers as a teen and later captained Harvard’s polo team.

A big hitter and good horseman, Nick was named to Team USPA and represented the U.S. in the FIP World Championships in Argentina. 4 goals

Dave Strouss A regular at Myopia since 1994, Dave learned the game from his father, Bud. His team, Del Rancho, has successfully competed at every level of Myopia Polo, including winning the 12-goal championship. Myopia’s delegate to the USPA, Dave lives in Ipswich with his wife, Tracy, and two daughters. rated a

anna weinburgh Anna started playing polo when she was 9 under the tutelage of Peter Poor. She made her Myopia debut in 2014. Anna will be a sophomore at Hamilton-Wenham High School this fall. She has her heart set on becoming an equine vet. She’ll be playing this summer on her family’s Fetlock Futures team.

Rob wilkinson Rob, a former captain of Myopia Polo, was an active player at Myopia for more than 25 years.

He has been an enthusiastic rider for many years and enjoys riding and fox hunting with the Myopia Hunt. Rob is president of New England Trust Services and lives in Topsfield with his wife, Darlyn.

Federico Wulff Federico grew up playing Polo in Buenos Aires and is a knowledgeable tactician of the sport.

He has made Myopia his summer home for the past several seasons and can be seen playing for Longmeadow. Last season Federico was charged with improving the level of our beginner and intermediate players of our Myopia Polo Coaching League.

Off the field, Federico is the tournament manager and can be found running the tournaments played at Myopia. 3 goals

Philip Zocco Recipient of Myopia Polo’s 2015 most improved player and sponsor of team Georgetown Door & Window returns for his 8th season at Myopia.

Combining his natural athletic abilities, team sport presence and a love for horses have contributed to raising his level of play and overall passion for the sport of polo. A rated

2017 myopia polo 15

ag e n da

the players

Polo 101, cont.

Firehouse Subs: Richard Salter’s

Kaia Cohen

William Grayken

James Grayken

Chloe Irvine

Beatrice Pforr

Myopia Polo Interscholastic League

Stephen Burr

stephen burr Introduced to polo four summers ago, Stephen, 18, instantly fell in love with the sport. A longtime soccer player who captained a division one club team, he was taken with how similar polo and soccer can be—minus the horse. He is currently a senior at the British International School of Boston and will be attending Northeastern University in the fall.

kaia cohen Kaia’s love of horses developed early on in life and she began her riding career at the age of 3. An accomplished rider in the hunter/ jumper discipline, Kaia competes and trains at Evenstride Farm with her own Dutch Warmblood, coincidentally named Polo.

A rising sophomore at Triton Regional High School, Kaia is thrilled to be in her first year participating in team practices and scrimmages playing in the Stage Hill and Myopia Interscholastic Teams.

james grayken James is 14-years-old and has been playing polo for just over

16 myopia polo 2017

two years. He started his polo career at a club just outside London. He now is an active participant of Myopia Polo, playing in the junior program and with the Stage Hill/ Myopia Interscholastic Polo Team. He played in several interscholastic games in the arena this past winter adding to his team’s score. James is a competitive player who is eager to learn, and plans to play polo through college and for the rest of his life.

william grayken William’s polo career began approximately two years ago. At 10-years-old, he is the youngest player on the Stage Hill/Myopia Interscholastic Polo Team. Prior to polo he had been riding for almost three years. His family often went to see polo. As he watched, he fell in love with the fast-paced and exciting game. He and his brother James were offered the opportunity to ride a polo pony and discovered how different they were from the horses they were used to riding. “Different in a good way.” Since

then, he and his brother have taken regular polo lessons in addition to horse riding lessons. William hopes to play this magnificent game for the rest of his life.

chloe irvine Chloe started playing polo with Peter Poor at Stage Hill Polo and is now riding with the USPA Interscholastic Stage Hill/ Myopia team. Chloe will be playing on the coaching league this summer. Chloe, currently a sophomore, is working towards being an equine vet. When Chloe is not playing polo she enjoys aerial silks and trapeze.

beatrice pforr Bea was introduced to polo through a USPA clinic run

by Myopia’s Nick Snow four years ago and hasn’t stopped playing since. She just completed her third season of playing interscholastic polo, this past year playing on the Stage Hill/Myopia Rough Riders team. Last summer she played with the Myopia Coaching League and in the USPA NYTS tournament.

team has been a highly successful team at Myopia and in Aiken.

Homewood: The Riva family team, Homewood is led by brothers Nick and Christian Riva and has won numerous championships at Myopia.

Little Bow/Big Four: The Ellis family team, Big Four draws on the Ellises’ origins in Western Canada.

Big Four won the top championship—the 12-goal Chairman’s Cup—in 2010.

Longmeadow: Kurt Miller’s team, Longmeadow has had a long run at Myopia dating back to the 1980s.

Maplecroft: The Raymond family team, once led by Ted Raymond, a former Myopia Polo captain, is now under the leadership of Ted’s son, Jed. Pony Express: The Daniels family’s team, Pony Express competes at the highest levels of polo in Florida and at Myopia.

Seagulls: The Snow family’s team, now led by Crocker Snow, has perhaps the longest and most storied history at Myopia.

Stage Hill: The Poor family team, led by Peter Poor and now including Alyson and Amanda, is going on 55 years with Myopia.

Winter Creek: The Graham family’s team, led by former Myopia Polo captain Lyle Graham, has had a 28-year run at Myopia.

Myopia Coaching League members Erica Ames, Rich Burke, Stephen Burr, Kirstin Costa, David Dunstan, Scott Fayban, James Grayken, William Grayken, CC Jenkins, Patricia Johnstone, Alison Marlow, Francoisa Martinolle, Leslie Milne, Lisa Ott de Bruin, Matt Roque, Michele Steyck

junior players Chase Brown, Stephen Burr, Kaia Cohen, Bronwin Chandler, Grace Gist, Hugh Gist, James Grayken, William Grayken, Grace Grotnik, Chloe Irvine, CC Jenkins, Kate McCaughey, Reed Miller, Bea Pforr, Matt Roque, Eva Trainer, Annie Veeder, Anna Weinberg

ag e n da

rules of the game riding, rough or abusive play, improper use of the mallet and unsportsmanlike conduct.

Dangerous situations and injuries usually result in a violation of the rules, and it is the responsibility of the two mounted umpires and the referee on the sidelines to maintain order on the field.

DANGEROUS RIDING

A foul which occurs when a player executes an improper or dangerous ride-off, zig zags in front of another player traveling at speed, slides across the back legs of another player’s horse close enough so there is a risk one or both horses could trip, rides an opponent across the rightof way of an oncoming player at an unsafe distance, deliberately rides his horse into the swing of another player, or generally exhibits a disregard for the safety of other players or their horses.

IMPROPER USE OF THE MALLET

A foul occurs when a player executes an improper hook, such as high hook (above the shoulder), a cross hook (from the other side of the horse) or a slash hook (excessive force); or uses a mallet in a way that endangers his mount, an opponent, an opponent’s mount, an umpire or a spectator.

PENALTY

The rules of polo are simple and designed to keep the game flowing and to protect the horses from injury.

The result of a called foul or infraction of the rules. The umpire imposes a penalty to either compensate the other team for the loss of advantage or to sufficiently penalize the fouling team for a rule violation which did not cause a disadvantage to the opponent, such as unsportsmanlike conduct. Penalties range in severity from taking possession of the ball from a team and bowling it in to ejecting a player from the game.

APPEALING FOR A FOUL

FOUL

RIGHT-OF WAY

Trying to influence the call of an umpire, most often done by lifting the mallet up in the air. Appealing for a foul is itself a foul, though seldom called.

A foul is an infraction of the rules.

The most common types of fouls are right-of-way infractions, walking the ball, turning the ball, dangerous

The right-of-way is best thought of as a highway, with the line of the ball creating the center line. The player traveling in the direction of the ball,

Law and Order

18 myopia polo 2017

photographs by andrew katsampes

A foul is an infraction of the rules. The most common types of fouls are right-of-way infractions, walking the ball, turning the ball, dangerous riding, rough or abusive play, improper use of the mallet and unsportsmanlike conduct.

with the ball on hisoffside and at the least angle to it, generally has the right-of-way over the other players.

When the player’s progress to the ball within that right-of-way is improperly impeded, a foul is called. Examples of right-of-way violations include entering the right-of-way at an unsafe distance or speed (comparable to cutting in from an onramp while driving too slowly), crossing over the line of the ball in front of someone on the right-of-way, stopping on the ball or one player meeting two.

ROUGH OR ABUSIVE PLAY

A foul which occurs when a player abuses his horse, another player or another player’s horse. This can include seizing or striking with the hand, elbow, head, mallet or whip.

SAFETY

A foul which occurs when a defending team hits the ball over its own

end line. When a safety occurs, the attacking team is awarded a Penalty 6, which is a defended penalty shot from 60 yards out and perpendicular to the end line at the spot the ball went over the end line.

TURNING THE BALL

Technically known in the USPA rules as a Quick Line Change, turning the ball is when a player slows down dramatically and changes the line in a very small space. When defended, this is a foul. Until recently, this rule was rarely enforced. In the last several years, all three major associations have begun enforcing the rule to create a more open and flowing game. To distinguish between running a turn, which is not a foul, and turning the ball, which is a foul when the player is defended, you must look at the distance between the player with the ball and the defender. When running a turn, the distance between the two

players does not close. When turning the ball, that distance closes quickly and is therefore considered unsafe.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

A foul which occurs when a player uses vulgar or abusive language; is disrespectful to another player, coach, umpire, or spectator; argues with an umpire; delays the game by feigning injury or requesting an unnecessary tack time-out; or appeals for a foul, especially by windmilling his mallet.

WALKING THE BALL

Carrying the ball while slowed down to a walk. In outdoor polo, this is a foul for delay of game. When called, it results in a throw-in at the spot of the infraction.

In arena polo, the player must maintain “reasonable pace” when along the wall. There is no rule governing pace in the arena when not along the walls.

Compiled from USPolo.org.

2017 myopia polo 19

ag e n da

gear Stirrups Stirrups come in a variety of shapes and sizes and greatly enhance each rider’s ability to stay in the saddle and control the mount, which is essential during the match.

Polo Saddle Most akin to an English-style saddle, polo saddles are built to not be bulky or heavy and to allow for ease of movement for the rider. A polo saddle differs from most other horseback disciplines, like racing, jumping, or Western riding.

Bridle Also crucial for safe polo playing, the bridle is placed over the horse’s head and must be adjusted for the proper fit. It’s connected to the reins, which the rider uses to aid in directing his or her mount. A rubber Pelham is pictured, but the bits come in different styles and are dependent upon the horse.

The WellDressed Mount Here’s a look at some of the gear you’ll see polo players, and their mounts, wearing in today’s match. spectators lining the pitch

Ball Players score by driving a small white plastic or wooden ball into the opposing team’s goal.

Mallets Made in a variety of sizes and weights, modern mallets have long handles, a rubber-wrapped grip, a sling that’s wrapped around the player’s thumb, and a shaft made for maximum flexibility, or whippiness.

Boots Essential for proper riding, players’ boots come in an assortment of styles and are protective during ride-offs.

may turn out in their match-day best, but the players and ponies alike are adorned in a wardrobe steeped in tradition and designed for safety and effectiveness as much as it is for comfort. Playing the sport means being able to maneuver while mounted atop a 1,200 pound horse thundering down the field. The right kit can make all the difference. Here’s a look at some of the gear you’ll see polo players, and their mounts, wearing in today’s match.

Helmet Polo helmets of decades past weren’t nearly as protective as they are today. New technology has brought them up to the safety and shock attenuation standards used in other sports, like football and hockey, but the traditional polo style remains.

20 myopia polo 2017

photographs by glenn scott

ag e n da

myopia hunt club

Release the Hounds!

Myopia Hunt is a sublime blend of athleticism and tradition. / by Brion O’Connor whether they’re parading across manicured polo fields or romping at full clip through local woodlands, the hounds, horses, and smartly clad equestrians of the Myopia Hunt are impossible to ignore.

“I first came upon the hunt by chance, while riding through Bradley Palmer State Park,” said Lisa Wohlleib of Brookline. “I was awestruck by the hounds, the number of horses, and the pageantry. Once I learned a little more, I was equally impressed with the historical aspect, and the fact that very little about the hunt has changed in the last 135 years.”

That, in a nutshell, is the endearing, and enduring, charm of the Myopia Hunt. The event is a spectacle, especially for the uninitiated. With more than two dozen hounds, often baying and tails wagging, majestic horses and riders in formal dress kits, all moving through fields and forests at breathtaking speed, the Myopia Hunt is equestrian theater at its finest.

“The hounds love to work, and when they find the scent they lay cry, and take off after it. We then follow the hounds,” said Wohlleib. “It’s great fun for all, riders, horses and hounds. The hounds are so well trained and focused upon finding the scent, they take no notice of (other) dogs, deer, turkeys, or even the occasional fox that we’ve come upon.”

22 myopia polo 2017

The hunt also has deep roots at the club, and in the community. The first 20 hounds—10 “couples”—arrived at the club in May 1882.

The hunt, much like the adjoining polo fields, has hosted a number of highprofile guests over the years, including President William Howard Taft in 1909, Edward Prince of Wales in 1925, and England’s Princess Ann in the 1970s. But it’s also been an escape for generations of families and equestrians of all stripes.

“Evolution is the word, not revolution,” said Hamilton’s Nicholas White, who is the joint hunt master along with Kim Cutler. “Over the years, more has stayed the

same than changed. That’s what is so wonderful. I look at my job as master to preserve this tradition for future generations.”

The members not only celebrate tradition, but also work tirelessly to nurture the hunt’s customs. It is no longer a live hunt, but a “drag hunt.” Huntsmen walk a pre-determined course beforehand, laying down a scented “line” of fox urine and “a few secret ingredients,” said Phillip Headdon, a 35-year Myopia veteran.

“Over the course of a days hunting, we’ll run an average of 4 to 6 miles, maybe more,” said Headdon, who lives in Hamilton.

“When hounds find the line, they’ll take off at full cry, a noise you can hear from a mile away. That’s the thrill of the chase, with the hounds running and you on your horse, keeping up with them on every twist and turn and jump.”

Headdon and his kennelmen are responsible for cleaning and maintaining local trails. They also repair and build new jumps throughout “hunt country,” which extends from Hamilton to Newburyport.

“We make sure the trails are safe for riders,” said Headdon. “And, paramount, we respect the wishes of the landowners and farmers whose land we ride over, so we don’t do any damage to their property.”

Then there is the wardrobe, which is as elegant as photographs by shawn tinkham

From left, Huntsman Phillip Headdon and hounds; Joint Hunt Master Kim Cutler.

a formal dance. During the funeral mass of a longtime Myopia fixture, Patrick Keough, this past fall, a local pastor recalled joining Keogh and his brother to watch the hunt. When he saw the riders crest a hill, the priest exclaimed “What magnificent red coats!” The congregation erupted in laughter, knowing the term “red coats” is never used at Myopia.

“The pink coats worn by the Masters of the Hunt and the hunt staff were originally made by a London tailor, Thomas Pink,” said Cutler. “Though they are red or scarlet in color, they are referred to as ‘pink coats’ in reference to the tailor.

“When gentlemen are awarded their colors— given to hunt members after a period of good standing with the hunt—they are allowed to wear a pink coat and they place their colors on the collar,” she said. “Women continue to wear their black jackets and put their colors on the collar. Women masters are allowed to wear pink coats—I have chosen to stay with my black coat because it belonged to my great grandmother.”

Again, the emphasis is on tradition. Wohlleib was so intrigued, and enamored, by the hunt that she later joined, and contin-

ues to commute from her Boston-area home to ride alongside the hounds.

The hunt is clearly a year-round endeavor, year after year. Not only is the upkeep of the horses a time-consuming task, but the hounds also need to be properly trained. It is a task that Headdon relishes.

“The magic of it is to see the hounds progress from pups to seasoned hounds, respond to the horn and voice not only in our hunting but in the kennels and our daily waking out of the hounds,” said Headdon. “It is truly a great privilege to see hounds from the day they’re born to the day they start their first hunt at 1-year-old and to see them progress through their lives.”

It is a privilege that none of the hunt members take for granted.

“Truly, when I look at our membership, the common threads that bring us together, rain or shine, cold or hot, are a love of animals and the outdoors, interest in being part of a great community and enjoying that sporting camaraderie, the thrill of riding and jumping a horse, and being part of a time honored-tradition which holds us to high standards of dress and behavior,” said White.

Those traditions will guarantee the hunt’s future, and they are in good hands.

Lake Legal LLC

Real Estate Estate Planning Business Law 17 Hammatt Street, Ipswich, MA 01938 Office: 978.356.7500 Email: philip@lakelegalllc.com

ag e n da

youth polo

Young Guns

Top youth polo on display at Myopia this season. / by Brion O’Connor

“It was a dream come true for me to when the myopia Hunt & Polo bring the NYTS National ChampionClub hosted polo’s National Youth ships to my home club,” she said. “My Tournament Series championships experience—playing polo here at Mylast September, it marked more than opia as a kid—is why I’m so passionate simply another milestone for the venabout what I do. The club and local erable institution. It was an important horse community were extremely acstep in the evolution of the sport, commodating to the visiting players, revealing that polo’s next generation is their horses and their families. a promising one.

“For years Myopia has been home “We have seen some pretty incredto some of the strongest youth memible growth in youth polo in the Northbership in the country,” said Snow. east and Eastern circuits,” said Amanda “One thing the club does best is work Snow, director of player development well with other clubs in the area to for the United States Polo Association create opportunities for (younger (USPA), the sport’s national governing members) to play with other kids and body. “There were 128 rated youth playfor families to play together.” ers who competed in NYTS in 2016, up The NYTS and the USPA’s Interfrom 35 in 2017. And of those players, 20 scholastic/Intercollegiate are rated 0 or 1/2 goals, up from program are essential to the only nine in 2017.” calendar future of the sport, Snow said.

For Snow, the 2016 chamjune 10-11 “We have created opporpionships at Myopia, won by a USPA NYTS tunities for youth players to squad from Florida, were also Qualifier september 1–3 compete year-round,” she a personal triumph.

USPA NYTS Championships

24 myopia polo 2017

Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club

said. “On top of that, one of the best things the NYTS program does is introduces kids to other kids from around the country.”

Now in its fifth year, the primary goal of the NYTS is to grow the sport, giving teenagers a chance to compete with and against their peers at the local and national levels, said Snow.

On the weekend of June 10, Myopia will host a NYTS regional qualifier.

The championships are set for Santa Barbara, California, in September.

“It should be an exciting year for the program,” Clockwise, from left, Benji said Snow. “We’ve added Daniels on the ball during the a second level, called NYTS final; NextNYTS which will Nico Escobar with Sloan be an East versus West Stefanakis and Conrad Kissing; Invitational Tournament. the 2016 NYTS Players rated minus-1 to 0 champions. goals will be eligible, and there will be a minimum of two female players per team. Santa Barbara has a strong spectator crowd, so I’m expecting a good turnout.” In short, Snow said she expects the sport to thrive as the NYTS continues to flourish.

“In my opinion, the NYTS Championships is the best polo in the country to promote the future growth and development of the sport,” said Justin Powers, director of club development for the USPA. “Nothing sells like a bunch of young men and women playing at the highest competitive level.”

Myopia will also feature clinics for contestants and other local riders this June. This outreach program not only affords local riders a chance to try the sport, or improve their skills, but can also serve to raise awareness of the sport in general.

“For me, personally, I am pleased with how the program introduces youth players to new people,” Snow said. “The relationships you make in this sport are everything, and I really enjoy watching these kids make new friends and share their passion.” photographs by elizabeth hedley

equestrian medicine

agen da

The Horse Healers

“It involves conduct on the field as well as off the field,” Snow says. “We Riders, referees, and enthusiasts alike keep a close eye on the welfare ensure they are fed well and cared for of Myopia’s polo ponies. / by Bill Burke properly at the barn and at the trailer during games also. A pioneering group it is sometimes said that the best of individuals a few years back felt there The scrutiny paid to equine welathletes on a polo field are the horses. needed to be a unified front as a club to fare at Myopia has not gone unnoThere are few polo players who address any issues and give these great ticed. Many of the guidelines started would argue the spirit of that claim, athletes, who do so much here have been adopted so when it comes time to caring for by the United States Polo Equine welfare for us, a voice. We’ve made their four-legged counterparts, the great strides and there a lot Association. committee men and women of Myopia take a of great people involved.”

The Equine Welfare chairman proactive approach to equine care.

While the game can group has also purchased Kimberly Maguire “I think that maybe what you don’t move at a very fast pace a trailer that can be taken advisory committee Dr. Bryan Parrott grasp when you’re watching is the and can be quite physical on to the field in the event Cathy Taylor Ray Dennis very strong connection you feel with at times, riders, referees of an injury. Further, the Susanna ColloredoMansfeld and others are keeping a the horses you play,” says Nick Snow, committee and other Cissie Snow constant close eye on the a member of Myopia’s Equine Welmembers of the polo comMyopia Equine Welfare members Peter Poor animals’ welfare. fare Committee. “It’s very unique. munity participate in a Amanda Poor Nick Snow “The responsibility of It’s not like golf, where you play and training event every year, Terri Campbell the rider is to not put the then put the clubs away. The time on led by a certified profesC.J. Brown horse into a dangerous the field is a small portion of the time sional, to deal with horse situation,” Snow says. “The players spent preparing and caring for them.” emergencies if they should happen. really love their horses, there is no Toward that end, polo ponies are The Equine Welfare Committee other way to say it, so we are just here seen as teammates and are treated was formed to better serve the needs to echo pretty much everybody’s colas such. “They’re conditioned like of the animals who take part in the athletes, so they should be in a regulective feelings on equine welfare.” fast, exciting sport. lar work program between actually playing,” Dr. Suzanne Loheac, of Backstretch Veterinary, Inc., says.

“They’re in a regular program to keep them fit and they’re all in good veterinary care. They are treated like high-performance athletes.”

For the uninitiated, the fast pace of the game and the physical nature of the sport can sometimes give the appearance of rough treatment. Play is closely monitored, however, and the horses are watched closely.

“I think when you do watch a match, you’ll see tight turns and how some people use spurs and some use whips—which we refer to as artificial aids—to help communicate with the horse,” Loheac, herself an aspiring polo player, says. “But it’s not abusive or aggressive at all. It’s basically just a reinforcement of natural aids like your leg or your hands or your feet.” photograph by bob packert

2017 myopia polo 25

1

3

2

Shady Behavior

Take cover in style with a fetching pair of frames.

4

1. Norton Point sunglasses, $150, Farley’s of Newburyport. 2. Maui Jim sunglasses, $319, Giblees Menswear.

3. Maui Jim sunglasses, $319, Tommy Bahama.

4. Chuck Purcell sunglasses, $128, Lucky Brand. 5. Banana Republic sunglasses, $98, Banana Republic. —lysa pelletier/ team artist representative

Where to buy it?

See page 49.

5

26 myopia polo 2017

photograph by glenn scott

Perfecting the craft of hairdressing for over 15 years.

BLISS SALON www.blisssalonmarblehead.com 781 631 4500

st y le

accessories

Time After Time Keep your summer watch game simple with these three instant classics.

1

2

3

1. Daniel Wellington watch, $229, Giblees Menswear. 2. Bertucci watch, $280, Farley’s of Newburyport. 3. Tommy Bahama timepiece, $195, Tommy Bahama. —lysa pelletier Where to buy it? See page 49.

28 myopia polo 2017

photograph by glenn scott

NEW ENGLAND TRUST SERVICES Creative Estate Planning Strategies for Wealth Preservation • Living trusts and estate planning • Trust to minimize estate taxes • Probate and Trust administration • Estate administration and estate tax returns • Asset protection strategies New England Trust Services specializes in creative estate planning strategies, giving families the peace of mind that they are able to preserve and protect their wealth for future generations.

Estate taxation and life circumstances are continuously changing and it is important to have a seasoned professional guiding you through these changes.

Trusts are especially important for Massachusetts estate taxes on a family’s $2 million estate.

Attorney Robert A. Wilkinson, President and Founder of New England Trust Services, is widely recognized as one of the foremost authorities on estate planning. Mr. Wilkinson is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the Boston Estate Planning Council and specializes in the areas of trusts and estate planning, estate and probate administration and Medicaid crisis planning. In addition to being an attorney, Mr. Wilkinson is a registered representative with Advisory Group Equity Services, Ltd. and a Registered Investment Advisor with Trust Advisory Group, Ltd.

New England Trust Services 607 North Avenue, Wakefield, MA 01880 Phone: 781-246-0662 rw@newenglandtrust.com www.newenglandtrust.com Securities offered through Advisory Group Equity Services, Ltd., Member FINRA/SIPC Advisory services offered through Trust Advisory Group, Ltd., a Registered Investment Advisor 444 Washington Street, Woburn, MA 01801, 781-933-6100

st y le

accessories

1

2

3

4

The Perfect Combination

Find your individuality by pairing a stunning necklace with an elegant earring or beautiful bracelet.

1. Charmed Island beaded necklace, $55; Charmed Island beaded bracelet, $32.95, Rose & Dove. 2. Maria Kaui necklace, $264; Elizabeth Cole earrings, $242, Dresscode.

3. La Vie Parisienne necklace, $82;Miguel Ases earrings, $378, Sole Amour. 4. J.Crew necklace, $118; J.Crew earring, $65, J.Crew. —lysa pelletier Where to buy it? See page 49.

30 myopia polo 2017

photographs by glenn scott

st y le

fashion

Top Hats

Pick a pretty topper for this season’s key matches.

2

1

3

4

1. C.C. Exclusive hat, $79.

2. C.C. Exclusive hat, $79.

3. C.C. Exclusive fascinator, $59.

4. Egg Cup Design fascinator, $334.

All from Puttin’ on the Glitz.

—lysa pelletier

Where to buy it? See page 49.

32 myopia polo 2017

photograph by glenn scott

2017 Giulia

Route 114, Danvers

KELLYAUTO.COM Kelly_Auto_MYOPIA_HALF_2017.indd 1

4/25/17 12:27 PM

Your neighborhood store for custom home furnishings, accessories and thoughtful gifts.

52 Railroad Ave., South Hamilton, MA 978-468-1141 Monday-Saturday 9:30-5 info@timelessinteriorsandgifts.com timelessinteriorsandgifts.com

st y le

scene

Having a Ball

Members of the Myopia Polo community gathered together to celebrate.

5

1

4

6

the annual myopia polo ball july 15, 2016

2

1. Tracy, David, and Caroline Strouss.

2. Dr. Bryan Parrott, Cathy Taylor, and Olivia Parrott. 3. Soledad Podesta and Federico Wulff.

4. Linda Weinberg, Franz ColloredoMansfeld, and Jackie Miller.

5. Scott Pugh and Erica Ames.

6. Peter Poor, Sharon Poor, Amanda Poor-Roberts, and Scott Roberts.

7. Pancho Eddy and Romina Sagarzazu. 8. Jackie, Kurt, and Reed Miller.

9. Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, and Barrett, Wendy and Bill Coke.

10. Robert and Stacy Scott and Jane and Rodney O’Connor.

11. Holly, Grace, and Yaz Grotnik.

3

7

8

9 10

11

34

photographs by james nelon

2017 Maserati Levante

Route 114, Danvers

KELLYAUTO.COM Kelly_Auto_MYOPIA_HALF_2017.indd 2

4/25/17 12:28 PM

st y le

instagram

@anniehancocknh

@teicheventing

@meghanwifey

@chasingafoxinalittleblackdress

@caitplusate

@charlesthehoundd

@jackujc

@bostonpolo

@loretta_allison

@christinabruno21

@alliandpheebes

@domestikateblog

@kziegs

@beaconhillbowtieclub

@melissazaldivar

@hchannan

@abostonblazer

@andrew_stadvec

#Myopia Polo Shoot it. Share it.

Hashtag it.

@honeyhepburn15

36 myopia polo 2017

2017 Ford F-250

Route 1A, Beverly

KELLYAUTO.COM Kelly_Auto_MYOPIA_HALF_2017.indd 3

4/25/17 12:28 PM

learn about the special touches that make An Edible Land

scape • Budd

ing Gardener

s • Yummy Straw

New HampsHire

berry Recipes

E HOME MPSHIR NEW HA

Homes unique places

GLoRiouS

in which to live.

GARdEnS

|

NEW HA MPSHIR E HOME

e 2017 m ay/j u n

Remodeling succe

sses • energy effici

ent and Beautiful

• indoor Plant

scapes

Gloriou n s Garde s

Fi n e De sig n jan uar y/feb ru ary

$4.95

06

|

e

fi n e

Magazin

2017

NHHome may/june 2017

.com

74470 22772

4

design

0

NHHomeM agazine

january/february

2017

$4.95

02

.com 0

74470 22772

4

An Architect’s Home of Her Ow n

to subscribe go to: NHHomemagaziNe.com or call (877) 494-2036 AvAilAble At newsstAnds in new HAmpsHire.

T

Myopia Through the Years

Member enthusiasm keeps one of the country’s oldest polo club thriving into its 129th year. / by Bill Burke

38 myopia polo 2017

he oldest continually active polo club in the country, Myopia can trace its roots back to the 1800s— when the sport was first introduced to the United States.

As polo traveled up the coast from New York in 1887, Randolph M. “Bud” Appleton, who played on the Harvard Polo Team, encouraged a few enthusiasts to knock a ball around at Gibney Field. The following summer, more than 200 people traveled by carriage to watch players scrimmage and to listen to a performance by the Salem Cadet Band. Although a witness to that event

declared that “the best playing was done by the band,” Myopia was emboldened by its popularity and issued a challenge to the Dedham Country and Polo Club, igniting an intense rivalry that was to last almost 50 years.

“There have been so many great things about Myopia,” former Captain of Polo Lyle Graham says about the venerable club. “You’re looking at a history which has this blend of British aristocracy, ordered military and the can-do attitude of Americans. That’s compelling. That’s what Myopia was and is today.” »

2017 Infiniti QX80

Route 114, Danvers

KELLYAUTO.COM Kelly_Auto_MYOPIA_HALF_2017.indd 4

LindaCloutier

603-964-2959 Linda Clough–Cloutier, CKD

Kitchens &Baths

4/25/17 12:28 PM

611 Breakfast Hill Road Greenland, New Hampshire www.lindacloutier.com

h i story 1887-1930: polo grips north shore elite In 1890, when the United States Polo Association formed, Myopia joined as a charter member. Five years later, the young team from Hamilton competed in the Senior Championship, the equivalent of the National Open today, and managed to take the top prize. Ties to the Harvard Polo Team, which are strong to this day, grew in 1907, when the team started practicing at Gibney Field; it was there that it defeated Yale during the country’s first formal college game.

Pictures from those early days showed the sidelines crowded with carriages and parasols. When automobiles first appeared on the scene, they were segregated to one corner, so as not to scare the horses.

1930-1958: the lean years Cars soon became an accepted fixture on the sidelines, but the Great Depression and World War II brought growth of the sport to a virtual standstill; polo was simply too expensive during those years. Loath to give up the game entirely, some players took to bicycle polo to keep costs down, but even that disappeared when news of Pearl Harbor was brought to a group of bicycle poloists on the Myopia club practice field in 1941.

1958-1990: the glamour years

Take your position.

Advertise in Myopia Polo Magazine lo.org

2016 myopi a polo magaz myopiapo ine

CA PTA IN’ S LET

TER

IFUL BEAUT BARNS arvi from M

n an

of polo season tradition kable s the 129th er mark field—a remar you, our supey with to this summ ia’s gibn d to share from early June y on myop we are please

Sunda that tors every and one polo and specta porters season of as the 12 mber. an active ts such late Septe er we have al tournamen Forbes Cup in ts nation This summ 8 Goal cluding and the tournamen planned—inman’s Cup in July er, we will host Myopia ic Goal Chair we do every summ most histor rman and As of our August. of some Ayer, Poor, Tuckees for the in honor such as ational match named recent families done in equestrianwill also host intern —as we have USPA is Team USPA with Team Little. We of a l match team and in honor Harvard The internationa rd Memorial in 2015. lost ers. we Will Tankacommunity summ n as the who has Maguire, of our polo now know ers, is member report that Kim two summ beloved d to eeing the past been I am please operations for nsible for overs Wulff etes, has our arena s respo Federico playn of Bellet , riding supervised as our manager to have , a divisio novice onal barns year s. pleased A&B Barns continuing ty. I am also our younger and and functi p activi nearl y 40 beaut iful t activity. all polo to develo ngs for ssful desig ning with us our tournamen e buildi and succe teers. working vibrant and storag volun coordinate not be as staff and ers and Polo wouldour dedicated Y leaderMyopia of US TODA volunteer and Dave CALL plans the efforts to thank our ut Poor, design Route witho lized like 114, Danver , Peter es committee ular, I’d For persona l packag s Nick Snow players and all of our In partic and materia includes ees ia polo dream barn. for your ship, which ng-time Myop y Ryus who overs our longand St all Barns Willet, they Strouss—lo s well as Denn s Stephen for all the work Arena Riding members—aour Treasurer, gs Indoor Dan Sears ting, er e Buildin marke Storag ghout ittee memb Sheds Polo throu Run-in s time commthe scenes.

Myopia and lessons are Cupola d , to follow do behin Barns rage you schedules, games g 978-468Dair y We encou tes on or by callin Twitter. n. Upda and iapolo.org, the seaso te, myop us on Facebook on our websican also find You POLO. s, Best wishe

2017 Giulia

by Bob Packert

TIFUL BEAU A L LY E EQU OORS D E S E RV AND D OW S grity WIND d Inte

Photograph

Advertising options are affordable and showcases your business to an exclusive readership.

since 1888 /

A POWERFUL MARKETING TOOL – EFFECTIVE AND TARGETED DISTRIBUTION TO AN EXCLUSIVE AUDIENCE.

2016 myopi a polo mag azine

Myopia Polo Magazine is the official season program for Myopia Polo and provides businesses with a unique opportunity to connect with this niche market.

For more information and to reserve your space, please contact McLean Communications at 603-624-1442.

NS BAR ES, INC. BER LUM of BELLETET Division d 1

e_Ad.ind

Magazin

's_Polo_

Belletete

• PEMBRO ROAD DAVIS 129 SHEEP .7483 25 603.224 • ROUTE R HWY • NH 121 WHITTIE OUGH ONBOR MOULT 3.4404 Kelly_A 603.25 uto_MY OPIA_H

KELL YAU TO.C OM

KE • NH

ia polo

n/myop

ld, captai edo-Mansfe Franz Collor

ALF_20

17.indd 10:46 AM 3/21/17 1

4/25/17

Your neig custom hborhood stor e for home furn accesso ries and ishings, though tful gift s.

52 Railr oad 978-468-11 Ave., South Ham ilton, MA 41 Monday-Sa turday 9:30info@timel essinteriors 5 timelessint andgifts.co eriorsandgi m fts.com

12:27

PM

It took years after the war for polo to regain momentum in South Hamilton, but the youthful energy of players like Adam Winthrop, Crocker Snow, and the late Don Little—the latter of whom organized impromptu matches during his time as a B-47 bomber pilot at the Strategic Air Command Base in Tucson, AZ—inspired veteran players like Tim Clark, C.G. Rice, and Neil Ayer to retake Gibney Field, which had been turned into a hay field. Polo became so popular that members, many of whom had demanding weekday jobs and could only play on Sundays, were inspired to build an outdoor arena so they could also play on Wednesday nights. The arena, built entirely by the players using timbers from a torn-down dancehall in Peabody, became the site for several national tournaments.

Hollywood discovered Myopia in 1967. Steve McQueen and Faye Dunaway shot polo scenes for The Thomas Crown Affair, which tells the story of a jaded Boston playboy who robs a bank for kicks (in addition to playing at Myopia).

The money from the two-week experience enabled Myopia to build a 24-stall polo barn, still in use today.

A year later, the Myopia team was invited to play in Iran, the birthplace of polo, as part of that nation’s 2,500th anniversary celebration, according to the book “Myopia: 1875-1975,” compiled and edited by

A polo team at Myopia in the club’s earlier days. Myopia has hosted royalty, screen stars, and other luminaries.

Edward Weeks. As the book notes, “Each player chose three [Arabian stallions] from an original string of 30, and began to get accustomed to the [pebble] field… the steady diet of lamb kebab, vodka, and Caspian Sea caviar, and the hot desert air.”

In the 1970s, an Iranian team visited Gibney Field, as well as teams from New Zealand, Pakistan, and Argentina. The resurgence of polo on a national level, combined with the inspiration of Myopia captains like Ayer, Little, and Michael Fawcett, attracted more players and more teams. The annual Forbes Cup, a New England championship game generally played against Fairfield, Conn., gained a strong following during this time, as did the renowned East Coast Open, at the 20goal level, which attracted 11 teams at its height, with top high-goal players and enthusiastic crowds.

Delicious and Fresh Food • Unique Event Planning Customized Menu Creation

For over 12 years, Bonne Bouche Caterers has created memorable and festive events that have both inspired and impressed our clients and their guests. Sit back and relax, enjoy your party, and let Bonne Bouche take care of every detail!

Call Jen Sanford at 978.423.7181 or visit

www.bonnebouchecaterers.com

1990-2017: a comfortable place Under the captainship of leaders like Neil Raymond, Rob Wilkinson, Lyle Graham, Albert Ellis, and, currently, Franz Colloredo-Mansfeld, Myopia Polo has achieved a storied place on the polo scene. Further accolades have come to the club through a solidified relationship with Harvard Polo and the great honor bestowed upon Adam Snow, who achieved the USPA’s cherished 10-goal handicap—only the second Myopiatrained player to do so.

In 2013, the club sent many local players to intercollegiate, national, and international tournaments. The club has also placed emphasis on horse welfare. Above all, Myopia remains dedicated to introducing young players to the honourable sport of polo.

where to buy it Banana Republic, Lynnfield Marketplace, 1515 Market St., Lynnfield, 781-334-4072.

Dresscode, 2 Elm Square, Andover, 978-470-0300. Farley’s of Newburyport, 47 State St., Newburyport, 978-462-5401. Giblees Menswear, 85 Andover St., Danvers, 978-7744080. J.Crew, Lynnfield Marketplace, 640 Market St., Lynnfield, 781-334-2049. Lucky Brand, Lynnfield Marketplace, 1135 Market St., Lynnfield, 781-334-6907. Puttin’ on the Glitz, 40 Market St., Portsmouth, NH, 603-436-5600. Rose & Dove, 565 Chickering Road, North Andover, 978-689-4141. Sole Amour, 10 Post Office Ave., Andover, 978-4091541. Tommy Bahama, Lynnfield Marketplace, 427 Walnut St., Lynnfield, 781-342-5272.

Come experience our excellent selection of domestic and international goodies. Peruse and taste artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, natural wines, craft beers, local ciders and gourmet food, both traditional and innovative. Make us your go-to spot for the perfect picnic or elegant party and stock your pantry with delicious and unique products.

Ask us about special catering!

Tues.-Fri. 11am-7pm Saturday 10am-6pm Sunday 12-5pm Wine tastings are held every Friday 5-7pm & Saturday 4-6pm 45 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA (978) 498-4820 thecheeseshopofsalem.com

m yopia

u.s. polo association Clockwise, from bottom left, H.L. Herbert, the first chairman of the USPA; Mary Duncan Sanford and Babs Tyrrell-Martin, Westchester Cup, 1939; Stuart Iglehart, Meadow Brook Club, 1939; Marjorie LeBoutillier, Bostwick Field, 1935; Pacific Coast Open, 1929.

The USPA

127 years of innovation, inclusion, and tradition. / by Bill Burke

with a history dating back thousands of years, Polo is considered the oldest team sport in known history.

The innovations of the past century, however, have molded it into the fastpaced, exciting game we recognize today. What was once a contest where eight or more players would gallop up and down the field for the better part of an afternoon has evolved into a focused, precise sport that highlights horsemanship, physical prowess and sharp, team play.

Much of the credit for that organizational transformation—at least in the U.S.—belongs to the United States Polo Association.

Over dinner one evening in New York City in 1890, H.L. Herbert, John Cowdin and Thomas Hitchcock formally create the Polo Association—now the United States Polo Association (USPA).

42 myopia polo 2017

The group is made up of seven clubs and is headquartered in New York. 100 handicaps are assigned to members, including future President Teddy Roosevelt. Herbert is elected chairman—a post he would hold for the next 31 years.

The first U.S. Open Championship is played in 1904 and the legendary American team that would become known as the Big Four (Harry Payne Whitney, Devereux Milburn, and Larry and Monty Waterbury) defeats England to win the Westchester Cup. Under the USPA’s guidance, the sport continues to see a growth in

popularity in the U.S., necessitating expansion south and west. In the 1920s, crowds of more than 35,000 people gather to watch major tournaments, and players begin numbering their jerseys 1-4 to designate position and role. According to The Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame, it was estimated that there was an annual need for more than 63,000 polo ponies.

Women begin to make their mark in the 1930s, as Cornell fields an intercollegiate women’s team, and a group of Army officer’s wives form the “Whippettes.” The Pacific Women’s Polo Association is formed in 1934. Women now make up 40 percent of the USPA’s membership.

The 1940s saw a slowdown in the growth of the sport, with record keeping suspended during World War II. The sport’s recovery took hold over the next 20 years, as the popularity of Arena Polo grows and a surge in the top ranks sets the stage for growth in the decades to come.

The fashion world adopts the polo image, high-goal polo is recognized as one of the fastest-moving and exciting spectator sports in the world, and the Palm Beach Polo and Country Club opens in 1979—becoming the foremost center for international high-goal polo. In the 1980s, USPA membership reaches an all-time high.

The USPA has evolved from an all-volunteer organization to one employing a full administrative and executive staff. Today, the USPA includes nearly 300 member clubs in 13 geographic circuits around the United States and oversees 40 national tournaments.

streaming polo The USPA broadcasts polo online, using a combination of multi-camera angles, high-definition equipment, dramatic drone coverage and expert commentators to make tournaments, matches and short films available to a global audience. Recently, the USPA broadcast the U.S. Open Polo Championship from the International Polo Club at Palm Beach, as well as a number of tournaments around the country. Visit the USPA Polo Network at uspolo.org/video. The site archives everything from memorial matches to tournaments to arena polo. Visitors can also subscribe to the USPA Polo Network Youtube channel. Fans can also follow the USPA on Twitter @PoloAssociation and on Facebook at facebook.com/teamuspa, facebook.com/iipolo/.

Myopia Polo 2017 The Next Generation the interscholastic polo program / page 46

Ready! Set! Action! photo essay / page 54

The Will Tankard Memorial Tournament

tournament spotlight / page 60

photograph by fawn deviney

45

interscholastic polo program brings youth, talent, and experience together.

by Bill Burke

the next Generation 46

photographs by jared charney

Beatrice Pforr, opposite, chases down a ball during Myopia Interscholastic League play, as William Grayken, this page, leads his horse into the arena.

47

it’s just getting dark on a Thursday night at Billiebo Farm, a collection of fields and barns tucked into the winding, wooded back roads of Rowley, Mass., and yet the quiet of the early evening gives way to excited chatter. The headlights of a truck illuminate the side of a sprawling, wooden building—more than 100 yards long—and reveal a handful of youngsters greeting one another just inside.

This indoor arena is where the Myopia Interscholastic League players gather several times weekly to hone their skills and to learn the game of polo.

A string of horses waits patiently as the players wrap their legs and braid their tails.

U.S. Certified Polo Instructor and Head Coach Kim Maguire, one of the organizers of the team, conducts the proceedings, assigning tasks and offering advice. (“They’re a little grumpy today, so pick your tails wisely.”)

“They love the horses,” Maguire says, laughing. “We’re supposed to start at 6:30 but most of the kids get here around 6 p.m. and start to tack up, and I have to drive them out of here with a whip at 8 p.m. because they like to be with each other and they like to be with the horses so much.”

48 myopia polo 2017

There are 12 players involved in the Myopia interscholastic team—including four on the open team, two middle school kids, another who got involved through Myopia Hunt, a newcomer and a few junior players.

Myopia has traditionally had a strong youth polo program, producing 10 goalers like Adam Snow. The interscholastic program, then, will help strengthen it further, and lead to increased consistency and viability.

“What I’m trying to do as the manager of polo at Myopia is link the programs together so that we have a full year-round option for getting new people or beginners better through the whole year,” she says. “So we have a winter arena program, it’s youth mainly, but Yaz (Assistant Coach and Team Advisor Jacek “Yaz” Grotnik) and I really want to try to get an arena program together.

I’m trying to develop programs at Myopia so that there’s more consistent sustainability within the club. Things like giving lessons, introducing people to polo, open houses— which will lead to growth and sustainability.”

The six-month, indoor interscholastic season runs from Sept. 1 through the end of March. This past season, Myopia Polo interscholastic teams competed in USPA Northeast Preliminary Regionals at Yale Polo and Equestrian Club, in Bethany, Conn., where they faced Bloomfield EPIC JV, Westchester/ Newport and the host team, Yale Interscholastic. The Myopia team placed second, and Reed Miller earned an All Star Award and Grace Grotnik received the Sportsmanship Award. The team string came in second place for best string out of four strings.

Competing was just part of the season, during which time the players learn larger lessons through the experience.

“Somewhere along the way, something clicks, and they get what we’ve been talking about,” Grotnik says. “The other kids help that along, they support it, they encourage each other, but what we see with kids who come in from other disciplines is that other disciplines are solo. So everyone else out there is against you. In here, everyone that’s out there is with you. So they’re like, ‘what do you mean every-

the interscholastic polo program

one’s not out there trying to put a dagger in my back? Everyone’s out there trying to help me get better so the team gets better.’”

For the kids, though, it’s first and foremost about having fun.

“I’ve been riding my whole life,” says Eva Trainer, an 11th grader at Ipswich High School with a background in dressage. “My friend Gracie said to come out and try it for a day and I was hooked. I’m all about playing team sports, and in dressage you’re in the arena doing your own thing. So it’s great to be able to combine my love of being on and around

horses and having it be a team sport.”

Stephanie Irvine’s daughter Chloe is among the dozen players who have committed to the interscholastic league, and she sees it as a valuable opportunity to increase important skills while enjoying the company of her teammates.

“This is Chloe’s first year doing it and she has developed so much,” Irvine says. “Her confidence and her riding abilities are just way beyond what they were when she first started here. But one of the greatest things about this program that Chloe enjoys, and

Assistant Coach and Team Advisor Jacek “Yaz” Grotnik (lower left) and U.S. Certified Polo Instructor and Head Coach Kim Maguire (top center) lead young players Grace Gist (left), Hugh Gist (center), James Grayken (bottom center), and Chloe Irvine (right).

2017 myopia polo 49

Some of Myopia’s young players, including Eva Trainer (left), Reed Miller (center bottom), Grace Grotnik (bottom right), Grace Gist (lower middle), and William Grayken (opposite), benefit from tips provided by adult players like Erica Ames (top right).

50 myopia polo 2017

she’ll probably tell you this, is that she loves riding with other kids.”

The Essex Agricultural and Technical High School 10th grader, who had previous experience jumping, initially found the sport difficult, but rewarding.

“I like the relaxed environment,” Chloe Irvine says. “When I was jumping, you had to do everything perfectly. Here, it’s a lot more relaxed and you can just ride.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by many of the young polo players, and something Trainer attributes to the league’s leadership.

“I’ve had some coaches that were really difficult and some that were super laid back,” she says. “Kim is the perfect combination of both. I’ve also done some work with Yaz, and he’s super great and totally understanding.”

Maguire was the first of eight coaches to be certified by the United States Polo Association (USPA) last year in Wellington, Fla. The USPA has established a set of standards, including a written test, a practical test and continuing training. Instructors must show they are safe around horses, can keep players safe, can teach the four main shots, can teach

the interscholastic polo program

the rider to walk, trot and canter safely, can match riders with appropriate horses and have the ability to coach practice chukkers.

“Kim’s really great at helping them improve skills,” Grotnik says. “She’s very encouraging. When we started this, we said we have to have a program that develops horsemanship, sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play. Those are the four things that we focus on. That’s how we presented it to all the parents, and that’s how we presented it to all the kids. You have to be a horseman first, you have to be a sportsman and you have to

learn the game—polo is a very complicated game. I’m in it over 25 years now and I’m always learning.”

Grotnik, who is also a USPA-certified umpire, watches closely as the riders warm up in the arena. A longtime Myopia Polo member, player and official, his practiced eye spots a teaching moment as the players head for the center of the arena to start a practice chukker.

“Hey buddy, don’t twist your hand,” Grotnik says to the young rider. “It’s always open on the back shots. I don’t want to see that.

OK? Keep practicing.”

2017 myopia polo 51

the interscholastic polo program

Grotnik gives him a reassuring nod as the youngster rides off into the play, adjusting his grip on the mallet.

“Willy is the youngest one out there— he’s 10,” Grotnik says. “And he’s a really good rider. He can hit the ball. Once he gets a little bit stronger, a little bit bigger, he’s going to be a rock star.”

If sheer enthusiasm is any measure of future success, William Grayken is headed for bigger things. The fifth grader, younger by a few years than the other riders, often arrives early to prepare. With more than a year playing in England behind him, the 10-year-old exudes excitement around the horses—and he knows what he likes.

“My favorite horse is Gringa,” he says.

“I like her because she’s really responsive and fast.”

“In the past, Myopia has always had a strong junior program,” Grotnik says. “But the junior program was essentially made up of the kids of existing players, so it’s a family—which is a wonderful thing about polo, it’s a family driven event. What we’re doing with this program is opening it up to juniors outside of that environment, where parents may not be involved in horses or involved in different disciplines and not polo.

We think it gives a much broader audience of participants.”

As for the future, Grotnik and Maguire see the interscholastic play opening up unforeseen opportunities for its participants. Many will go on to play at Myopia, and possibly at the intercollegiate level.

“Maybe there’s a kid who’s not doing so well in school, and they get to go to Yale to play in a tournament,” Maguire says. “They see it and say, ‘wow, I could go to Yale and play polo.’ Maybe that gives them the incentive to try harder. So for me, I love everything about trying to help kids play polo.”

It’s certainly an option the older players are aware of.

“I would love to play in college,” Trainer says as she prepares to head into the arena.

“I’d like to do any type of riding in college, but I think this, polo, if I continue to refine my skills, I could definitely do it.”

52 myopia polo 2017

Opposite page, Reed Miller (top) and William Grayken (center left) ride into the ring for a practice chukker during a Myopia interscholastic practice; Grace Grotnik (lower right). This page, Bea Pforr follows the play during interscholastic play at Billiebo Farm.

53

ready! set!

a visual chronicle of the most thrilling moments of myopia’s high-flying 2016 season. / Photographs by Andrew Katsampes

54 myopia polo 2017

action!

Chanticleer/Pony-Up (white) defeated Longmeadow/Fetlock Futures (green), 10-8, on in Chairman’s Cup action on Winthrop Field on July 20, 2016.

55

ready ! se t ! acti on!

Patrick Keough Memorial Cup. Black Oak (white) defeated Stage Hill (green), 5-4 on Gibney Field on September 25, 2016.

Opposite page, far left top and bottom, and near left, middle: USPA Cyril Harrison 8-goal Cup. Del Rancho/Black Oak (green) defeated Longmeadow/Fetlock Futures (white), 12-9, on Winthrop Field on July 13, 2016.

Near left, top: USPA Crossman 2-goal Tournament. Del Rancho/ Fetlock Futures defeated Stones Throw Farm/ Stage Hill (purple), 3-2, on Gibney Field on September 9, 2016. Bottom: Governors 6-goal Cup final. Longmeadow/Giddy Up (blue) defeated Del Rancho/Chanticleer, 7-5, on Gibney Field on August 28, 2016.

57

Tuckerman 4-goal Tournament. Pony-Up (red) defeated Longmeadow, 8-4, on Gibney Field on July 29, 2016.

Opposite page, near right, top: USPA Chairmans Cup 8-goal Cup. Del Rancho/Black Oak (white) defeated Stage Hill (green), 9-7, on Gibney Field on July 20, 2016. Bottom: USPA Chairmans Cup 8-goal Cup final. Del Rancho/Black Oak (green) defeated Chanticleer/Pony-Up, 11-8, on Gibney Field on July 24, 2016.

58

Top, far right: Neil Ayers Cup and USPA Governors 6-goal Cup. Giddy Up/Longmeadow (white) defeated Pony Up (red), 9-5, on Gibney Field on August 21, 2016. Middle: Forbes Cup 8-goal tournament. In overtime, Black Oak/Chanticleer (maroon) defeated Giddy-Up (blue), 10-9, on Gibney Field on August 7, 2016. Bottom: Patrick Keough Memorial Cup. Black Oak (white) defeated Stage Hill (green), 5-4, on Gibney Field on September 25, 2016.

ready ! s et ! action!

tournament spotlight

The Will Tankard Memorial Tournament

60 myopia polo 2017

on july 31, 2016, team uspa and team south america played to a fitting 7-7 tie in a fast, competitive, and emotional game. photographs by

james nelon and Shawn Tinkham

2017 myopia polo 61

The Will Tankard Memorial Tournament: Team USPA (red) faced off against Team South America (blue) on July 30, 2016.

the week leading up to the Will Tankard Memorial Tournament last July didn’t offer weather particularly friendly to polo, but you’d never know it from the turnout.

Days of rainy, unsettled weather left Gibney Field soft, but by the time the first throwin kicked off the match, the sidelines and grandstands were packed with fans, friends, former teammates and family members of the 30-year-old for whom the weekend was named. Will Tankard, a great polo player, horseman and a friend to many at Myopia, passed away in the summer of 2015 in a tragic trailer accident in Ohio as he was traveling to South Hamilton for the summer season.

The match saw Team USPA, wearing red and led by Will’s stepbrother, former national team member and longtime Myopia player Nick Snow (4), face off against Team South America, in blue, led by Federico Wulff (3).

Team USPA’s quartet was rounded out by Jared Sheldon (4), Felipe Viana (5), and CB Scherer (2); and Wulff’s side included Facundo Retamar (5), Pancho Eddy (4) and Marcos Onetto (4).

The wet field was given a little extra time to dry out, thanks to a perfectly-timed parade of the Myopia Hunt and hounds, combined with a fortuitous break in the warm weather.

The match, a 16-goal test match, would be the highest goal rating of the entire season.

“What’s unique about the event and about 62 myopia polo 2017

the game itself is it’s the best polo at Myopia all summer by far,” Snow says. “We basically try to put together the best American players and all the best Argentine players playing at Myopia for the summer. Maybe not every single player is a pro—I’m certainly not a pro anymore—but the idea is to have highest level game as we can.

Most of the other tournaments are pro-am in nature—allowing some pros with amateurs or sponsors, and that’s a good level of polo, but this is something totally different.”

As those in attendance watched, including members of the Myopia Polo community, Will’s mother, Cissie, his brother, Jason, his partner, Samira and friends from his hometown of Aiken, South Carolina, an evenlymatched, back and forth game unfolded.

“It was a very fast, very competitive game,” Snow says. “It was an emotional event, certainly for myself and for most of the people involved. All the people playing— me, Felipe, Jared, Federico, Pancho, Marcos—we all played with and against Will a lot over the years. It wasn’t only good players, it was players who had a history of playing with and against Will.”

The score bounced back and forth between Team USPA and Team South America, with very few fouls and a wide-open style dominating play. As the time drew down, the match was tied and decided in the final few minutes, ending in a fitting 7-7 tie. Facundo Retamar was awarded the Most Valuable Player award, and Best Playing Polo Pony went to Felipe Viana’s horse, Legendaria.

The game will be played again this season on July 30, with similar guidelines. Organizers are considering playing under the new All Pro Polo League rules, which were pioneered by renowned Argentine player, Javier Tanoira.

“It will be an international game,” Snow says, a detail that reflects Tankard’s particular experience and interest in the sport. “The unique part of polo is the international aspect to it. We’re going to keep the highest level we can—Will always enjoyed that—and it’ll be a unique and fun thing for people to see.” photograph by carol morocco

to u rnament s p otlight

2017 myopia polo 63

s pot lig ht

Clockwise, from top left, Katelyn and Lyle Graham and Franz Colloredo-Mansfield; playing with Winter Creek; Jonathan L. Graham, Lyle Graham, Helen R. Ayer, Alex Ingram, and Phoebe Ingram at the Neil Ayer Memorial Tournament.

It’s All Relative

Lyle Graham reminisces about family, polo, and life at Myopia.

for lyle graham, polo—and Myopia Polo, in particular—has always been about family “It’s a family game—your family is always involved,” Graham says from his north shore office not far from Gibney Field. “It’s really hard for me to imagine having played at that level, having that many horses, if my family wasn’t involved or supporting of it.”

A long hitter with a great deal of strength and little patience for turning the ball, Graham was known to send players away with a perfectly-executed shot. And though there were many victories over the years, it’s the father-son, parent-child combinations on the pitch that make the sport special for him.

“It is an essential part of it, and Myopia is a club that’s built on families,” Graham says. “If you look at every single captain we’ve had, there’s a family there. And polo, for whatever reason, there seems to 64 myopia polo 2017

be some genetic genome or DNA transition from father to son, mother to son, daughter—that’s kind of the basics of our sport.”

Graham led Myopia Polo as captain from 2000 to 2008, and has a long history with the club, dating back to his days as a 5-goal player known for his passionate, competitive style. It’s an approach he developed when he first began to learn the game as a youngster in Connecticut under the tutelage of 8-goal player and Polo Hall of Famer Bennie Gutierrez, among others.

Before long he was hooked, beginning a decades-long career on horseback.

“It was the connection to the horses and also the fact that I could participate in a sport with other people that I respected and learned from and enjoyed their company,” Graham says of the initial draw.

He easily recalls a wealth of memories from his time on the field, from competing with his son to filling

his role as captain of polo when family friend and fellow Myopia player Adam Snow reached the 10-goal rating. It also allowed him to play with and against a wide variety of players from around the world.

“Polo’s kind of that passport,” Graham says. “No matter where you are, if you’re a polo player and there’s a polo club or a polo field, you’ll be welcomed. It was a wonderful thing.”

And always most importantly, it allowed him to play with family. His oldest son Jonathan talks about his father’s on-field skills with a combination of admiration and appreciation. “People loved watching him because of the way he played.”

“He always came to the field to win—it didn’t matter who we were playing,” the younger Graham says.

“And I learned a lot with him. There’s a whole aspect to polo behind the game: The back of the barn, getting the horses together, working them on a Wednesday when nobody’s there— just going out with your dad. That kind of connection you get away from the field is really special.”

And through it all, a thread of pride and affection is woven among the stories of wins and losses.

“That’s a picture of me retiring two of my favorite horses at Myopia,” Graham says of one of the polo photos that adorn his office. “That was one of the happiest days I had at Myopia.”

As time wore on and old polo injuries began to catch up to the famously competitive Graham, he reluctantly opted to rein-in his on-field involvement a bit to focus on family, business and new interests like nautical pursuits and motorcycle touring.

Graham is far from a stranger at Myopia, however, and he and his family remain a fixture there.

“I may have downsized,” he says.

“But we have the jerseys—and the memories.”

photographs, from top, james nelon; andrew katsampes (2)

Teamwork to Success “Good Luck Folly Fields!”

Courtesy • Craftsmanship Integrity • Established in 1988 129 Belcher Street • Essex, MA 01929 978.768.0029 • www.oneilfinebuilders.com

.

BYTHESEASIR.COM

978.865.1168