@USPOLOASSOCIATION @USPOLOASSOCIATION @POLOASSOCIATION
From Cottage to Castle… Big or Small…
Jenni Beak Rachel Clough Kathleen Byrd Sharer Dale Stephanie Slade Brooke Thomas Madi McEvoy
Get in the Game
Learn to play. Visit uspolo.org.
Sharer Dale Team Sells it All!
Glenarvon Farm in Chime Bell Chase
Honey Ridge Farm in Hatchaway Bridge
(803) 761-0678
INSIDE
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3.....................Contributors 94.............Las Modelos 5.....................Welcome Letter 108......New Bridge Sponsor Spotlight 10.............Room To Play, Ride, Live 119......Ride Off 22.............Member Spotlight 29.............Polo Equipment 37.............Ponies and Pearls 41.............Game Time 52.............The Centerpiece of New Bridge Life
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63.............Polo For Bear 68.............Chef Frank Stitt 84.............Clothes Horse
On the Cover: Orchard Hill Polo Team’s, J Lo dons a special halter to celebrate our tenth edition. Photo by Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions | (803) 474-3094 | ohschmidt.com
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SHELLY MARSHALL SCHMIDT Photographer & Creative Director shelly@ohschmidt.com
KATIE ROTH Editor & Publisher katiegirlroth@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTORS Our paths first crossed when we both worked in the motorsports industry, but we really did not know each other. A mutual colleague introduced us — at an event at New Bridge — and not long thereafter, the New Bridge magazine was born. We decided to collaborate and produce a magazine that was something different — trailblazing and visionary. For the last ten editions, we’ve done that and more. Our photo shoots are unique, fun, and usually end up with some hilarious outtakes. A cat walking on a horse’s back, a beautiful girl paddling a surfboard in the community pool, a polo pony standing in the pines adorned with shopping bags, a ballerina dancing on the polo field, and a leaf blower creating a breeze for a pony’s mane, just to name a few. Ideas and creativity are continually passed back and forth between the two of us. We are adventurous with the magazine layout, and in life itself. Often, you’ll hear one of us say, “I’ve got an idea, what do you think if we do this …?” We hope you enjoy what’s inside the tenth edition, we are already planning the next one.
IS IT FREE?
A publication this beautiful is expensive to produce, and we have to thank our advertisers for making this stellar magazine possible. There’s also a lot of time, energy, thought, and creativity that goes into every single page. If you love the elegant design, interesting articles, quality of the paper, and appreciate having it as a keepsake, we invite you to scan this QR code and make a contribution via Venmo. Every little bit helps spur us on to create more! New Bridge | 2022 | 3
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WELCOME
TO NE W BRID GE
On behalf of New Bridge Polo & Country Club, welcome to the 2022-2023 polo season and the tenth edition of our magazine. We are so proud of this award-winning, timeless, creative publication. Our magazine celebrates the heart of our community — our essence is polo, but New Bridge means much more to the residents that have chosen to reside here. It’s about the ability to live in a beautiful place where we can enjoy our friends, our horses, the idyllic scenery and #newbridgelife. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors, advertisers, members and guests for their continued support and loyalty. We look forward to bringing you outstanding tournaments on our superb fields. Games are open to the public and I invite you to bring your friends and family to experience New Bridge. Updated tournament information and field locations can be found on our website (newbridgepolo.com) or call the polo information line at (803) 644-7706. See you on the field!
Russ McCall New Bridge Polo & Country Club 862 New Bridge Road Aiken, SC 29805 Phone: (888) 4NB-POLO Fax: (803) 648-3830 General Manager and New Bridge Realty Raza Kazmi info@newbridgepolo.com (803) 648-3699
Polo Manager Haley Bryan Hbryan2485@aol.com (803) 215-3577
Sponsorship/PR/Magazine Katie Roth katiegirlroth@gmail.com (803) 341-8800
Stables Manager Amy Hoffield stables@newbridgepolo.com (412) 860-3375
Polo Information Line: (803) 644-7706
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STOP DREAMING
Start Living
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Jason Redd NMLS# 656952 Jacqueline Grubbs NMLS# 2115068
LOA N S FOR L A ND, FA RMS A ND HOMES
By Katie Roth | Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt
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ABOUT NEW BRIDGE: ROOM TO PLAY. ROOM TO RIDE. ROOM TO LIVE. New Bridge Polo & Country Club was born from the excitement, intensity and tradition of polo and continues to thrive today as a community where sport meets lifestyle. Nestled among 861-acres of rolling pasture lands, this private, gated community welcomes equestrians of all disciplines as well as those who simply love the outdoors. Founded by Russ McCall in 2000, New Bridge is a special place that celebrates horses, people, and land. Residents enjoy countless amenities in a casual environment, and are still only minutes from downtown Aiken, South Carolina, a renowned equestrian destination with a vibrant downtown.
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HOME OF NEW BRIDGE POLO & COUNTRY CLUB If polo is your passion, there is no better place to call home. Members enjoy five state-of-the-art, championship polo fields, acclaimed among U.S. and international players. We offer fast-paced, competitive polo tournaments during our spring and fall seasons. Stick and ball fields, practice areas and an exercise track make this the perfect place to prepare for tournament action. Our regulation-sized polo arena is the site of interscholastic and intercollegiate action and home to Aiken Youth Polo and the University of South Carolina Aiken men’s and women’s teams. It is also the perfect place for new players of all ages to learn the game. New Bridge offers coaching for all levels, from juniors and beginners to seasoned veterans. Pick-up games and open practices are offered throughout the year. Our friendly outfitters can provide everything you need to get in the game — from tack to ponies. Spectators are welcome at New Bridge. Join us at the clubhouse, located on the sidelines of Field #1, and enjoy the thrilling action of Sunday polo.
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THE STABLES AT NEW BRIDGE We provide the perfect home for your horse as well. The Stables is our full care, 24-stall facility that offers fullservice boarding by the year or season. Our professional, experienced staff has your horse’s health and happiness as their top priority. We offer meticulous daily stall care, feeding, individual turnout, blanketing, and night check. Your equine partner will be well taken care of in our spacious stalls with wall-to-wall comfort matting, and multiple indoor hot and cold wash racks with fans. The Stables offers comforts for riders as well. Boarders enjoy a spacious rider’s lounge with two full baths, laundry, and a temperature-controlled tack room with individual storage. The riding options at New Bridge are endless. Preparing for upcoming show season? School in the jump arena or dressage arena, both built to superior standards with all-weather GGT footing. Looking for options outside the arena? Hack past lush pastures on horse-friendly roads, through serene woodlands on groomed riding paths, or leg up your horse on our shaded exercise track. For availability and pricing, contact us at (803) 648-3699.
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NEW BRIDGE REALTY New Bridge offers a variety of places to call home. From cottage style bungalows, custom built homes, and generously-sized home sites to expansive horse-friendly estates (from four to 40 acres), you’ll find the property that speaks to your lifestyle — and your heart. Ready to call New Bridge home? Contact New Bridge Realty at 1-888-4NB-POLO to schedule a tour.
GATHERING SPACES The clubhouse is the centerpiece of life at New Bridge. The rustic, colonial style gathering space made of century-old wood from Argentina brings the history and atmosphere of the Argentine way of life to South Carolina. It is a vibrant hub of activity throughout polo season, and the place for postmatch cocktails and dinner among players and friends. It is also a unique special occasion rental facility available for weddings, receptions, parties, and meetings. Call (803) 648-3699 for details. A swimming pool with lounge area, a clay tennis court, and an “asado” (an Argentinian-style grill), are located near the clubhouse for residents to enjoy.
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aikenregional.com Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 22851359-883187 5/22
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By Katie Roth Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt
When someone sells their home and moves away, it’s not often that they move back. But that’s exactly what Mary Guynn did at New Bridge Polo & Country Club. She even returned to the same house she had built 15 years earlier. “I missed New Bridge after I left,” said Mary. “There is something special about this place and I knew I wanted to come back someday.” Mary bought land in New Bridge in 2004. “I came to New Bridge for a polo match and I loved it,” she said. At that time, Mary lived in town, but she needed more property for her dogs to be able to run. In 2005, she built a barn with an apartment. She lived in the apartment for the next year while the house was being built. Mary worked with architect Martin Buckley on the house. She admired the renovation work he was doing at one of the historic homes in town. “I wanted to mirror this house after that one,” she said. “I loved the eyebrow windows, slate roof and black shingles.” Mary was originally going to build a bungalow, but after living in older homes with tiny closets, she decided that when she built her own house, she was going to have huge closets. “That’s one thing I love about this house, it has tons of storage.” Mary said. At that time, there were only a few bungalows and only one other house at New Bridge. It was desolate in the summer, and there was no pool or clay tennis court built yet. Mary was the only year-round resident; everyone else was seasonal. Mary, an attorney with Smith, Massey, Brodie, Guynn & Mayes, was introduced to professional polo player Justin Pimsner. “Justin was one of our best clients in our law firm — but not for good reasons,” laughed Mary. It was love at first sight. Mary and Justin began dating and were engaged six weeks later. Soon they recognized that Mary’s 10-acre property was not going to be big enough for her horses and his polo ponies. Even though Mary had barely lived in her new house for a year, she left New Bridge and moved to Justin’s 140-acre property. At their new farm, they had a friendly rivalry with the neighbor across the street, Quartermore Farm. Mary and Justin (perhaps being a little tongue-in-cheek) named their farm Dollamor and temporarily placed large, gold dollar signs at their entrance gates.
Mary Guynn & Justin Pimsner A Homecoming Story
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They would return to New Bridge on occasion to visit friends, or when Justin played polo, and always regretted leaving the community. They would even make a point to drive by the house because they missed it. Two years ago, a series of events happened allowing them to return to New Bridge. Mary and Justin were at a fourth of July party at New Bridge, and they drove by the house and noticed it was for sale. It was Justin who really wanted the house back. They planned to sell a portion of Justin’s property and keep their horses there, but the buyers
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wanted the entire acreage. Coincidentally, Mary and Justin learned that an 18-stall barn across the street from the house at New Bridge was for sale.They decided the timing was perfect and they bought the house and the barn and returned to New Bridge, bringing the Dollamor name along with them. The second time around, Mary and Justin have found that New Bridge had blossomed as a community. “Where else can you go for a trail ride in the morning, go for a swim in the afternoon, and enjoy polo at the clubhouse in the
evening?” said Mary. “It’s a dream life.” Both of them enjoy trail rides with friends, some ending on the clubhouse lawn. The club atmosphere is important to both of them. “The fields are the best — you get spoiled playing on them,” said Justin. “Neighbors here like to do things together and we have the clubhouse as a gathering spot.” “I think the biggest thing that sets New Bridge apart from other equestrian communities is the wide variation of lot sizes, having both small lots and larger lots for horses,” said Mary. “Plus, the club atmosphere is hard to beat.”
Horses have always been a part of both of their lives. Mary was born and raised in Aiken and started riding when she was eight years old. Her parents thought she would try it for a season then quit, but it has become a lifelong passion. Mary did not own a horse growing up, rather she rode whatever was available. She got her first horse as a gift when she graduated from The College of William and Mary. She is an avid jumper and competes on a regular basis. Justin was born in Sandusky, Ohio and read every book about horses he could find growing up. At 13 years old,
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Justin’s parents sent him to Culver Academy, a boarding school in Indiana, hoping he would become more focused in school. Culver had equestrian sports, and Justin’s parents wanted him to try jumping, because it only required one horse, but he wanted be on the polo team. But that required more money, so Justin would take the seniors’ uniforms and equipment and sell it to the incoming freshman. His ingenuity was apparent — he was just more interested in riding horses than schoolwork. His roommate filled out his college application to Ole Miss and Justin was accepted, but he never actually attended a class there. Justin decided to pursue polo instead of college and it took him from Florida, to California, to Wyoming and eventually to Aiken, South Carolina. While playing polo, Justin also learned to perform chiropractic work on horses. Today, he travels to Atlanta, Charleston, Columbia and even Florida. His clients are everything from jumpers to barrel racers. “I enjoy it because it’s a puzzle you have to figure out,” said Justin.“The owners can tell you what they think is wrong with their horse, but you really have to listen to the horse to tell you what the issue is to be able to fix it.” Mary and Justin have been married for 16 years. They are a happy couple with an infectious sense of fun and adventure. They are enjoying the life they have built at New Bridge with their horses and dogs, Auggie, Judge and Joyce. Their second time around at New Bridge has been a blissful homecoming.■
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A
C D I
E G
F B H
Photo by Shelly Marshall Schmidt
POLO EQUIPMENT Players: Players are rated on a handicap system from -2 to 10; 10 being the best in the world. Players are not limited by gender or age. Polo Pony: Polo “ponies” are usually Thoroughbreds (14.2 to 16.2 hands) selected for their speed, agility, endurance and intelligence. Most players believe their polo pony accounts for up to 75% of their game.
B: Mallet Mallet lengths range from 49” to 54” to best fit a player’s swing and size of pony. They are constructed of bamboo cane with a tipa wood head. C: Roached Mane Manes are clipped to prevent them from getting tangled with the reins and out of the player’s face.
Polo Ball: The ball is 3” in diameter and made of hard, white plastic that dents after continuous hits.
D: Bridle Leather bridles are customized to fit each pony. The most common bits used in polo are the gag, snaffle and pelham.
A: Helmet Helmets are required equipment for protection against swinging mallets, flying balls and spills.
E: Draw Reins A second set of reins for better control extends from the girth, through the bridle to the rider’s hands.
F: Boots/Wraps: Used to protect the pony’s legs from the ball and mallet while providing additional support. G: Boots/Knee Pads Leather boots protect the rider and knee pads guard again injury in a “ride-off.” H: Shoes Give the pony better traction. I: Tied tail Tails are taped or tied to eliminate interference with the mallet. Pictured: Tommy Collingwood on his beautiful mare, Image. New Bridge | 2022 | 29
2021 Season
COPA DE PLATA 8 GOAL WINNERS: LBL
Jack Whitman, Allison Patricelli, Trevor Niznik, Alan Martinez MVP: Trevor Niznik | BPP: “Ryan” Trevor Niznik
NEW BRIDGE WOMEN’S CHALLENGE 14 GOAL
USPA NATIONAL PRESIDENT’S CUP 8 GOAL
Robyn Leitner, Brinkley Erb, Reagan Leitner, Hope Arellano MVP: Hope Arellano | BPP: “Ace” Sophie Grant
Jack Whitman, Allison Patricelli, Trevor Niznik, Alan Martinez MVP: Trevor Niznik | BPP: “Phoenix” Alan Martinez
WINNERS: MID STATE ROOFING
WINNERS: LBL
Photo credit: Alex Pacheco
USPA ASSOCIATION CUP 8 GOAL
USPA TOWNSEND CUP 18 GOAL (Arena)
Jack Whitman, Allison Patricelli, Alan Martinez, Trevor Niznik MVP: Alan Martinez | BPP: “Phoenix” Alan Martinez
Pelon Escapite, Geronimo Obregon, Winston Painter MVP: Pelon Escapite | BPP: “Samurai” Eden Ormerod
WINNERS: LBL
WINNERS: USA
USPA REGIONAL PRESIDENT’S CUP WINNERS: LBL
Alan Martinez, Trevor Niznik, Malia Bryan, Allison Patricelli, MVP: Alan Martinez | BPP: “Butterfly” owned by Beth Skolnik, played by Malia Bryan
PETE BOSTWICK MEMORIAL
TOMMY HITCHCOCK MEMORIAL 8 GOAL
WINNERS: Bottega
WINNERS: LBL
Lucas Arellano, Del Walton, Hope Arellano, Reagan Leitner, Robyn Leitner *Reagan and Robyn Leitner played for Frank Stitt MVP: Del Walton | BPP: “Bochita” Trevor Niznik
Allison Patricelli, Malia Bryan, Trevor Niznik, Alan Martinez MVP: Alan Martinez BPP: “Fanta” Marcos Onetto
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A Women’s Empowerment Event By Katie Roth | Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt The finals of a fast-paced 14 Goal Women’s Challenge tournament at New Bridge Polo Club on Friday, October 1, 2021 set the stage for the first annual fundraising event for Brooke USA in Aiken. Ponies & Pearls, presented by Malvern Bank, was billed as a Women’s Empowerment Event, but the men in attendance had just as much fun as the women. The inaugural event raised over $23,000 for Brooke USA. These funds will support a wide variety of programs for working horses, donkeys and mules to help them become (and remain) healthy and happy, which also benefits the poor families who depend on those animals to help them earn a living. Clubhouse VIP patrons were greeted by a sea of elegant white decor with pops of Brooke USA’s signature color, orange. They were treated to an exciting polo match where Mid State Roofing (Hope Arellano, Robyn Leitner, Reagan Leitner and Brinkley Erb) took on Roseland Polo (Sophie Grant,
Maddie Grant, Kaitlyn Bender, and Summer Kneece). Mid State Roofing was victorious in the end, 11 to 3.5. MVP honors went to Hope Arellano and Best Playing Pony was Sophie Grant’s “Ace.” The event’s official spirits sponsor, 21 Seeds, gave guests a choice of three signature drinks to enjoy; the Spicy Skinnyseed Margarita (made with Cucumber Jalapeño tequila), the Paloma (made with Grapefruit Hibiscus tequila), and the Seed + Soda (made with Valencia Orange tequila). The crowd favorite was the Spicy Skinnyseed Margarita, also a 21 Seeds bestseller.
Thank you to the following sponsors who made this event possible: Presenting Sponsor, Malvern Bank and Golden Goal Sponsors: Triple C Polo, Dollamor Farm, Aiken Saddlery, Gold Wowie Equine, Irene Berzak, Peggy Dils, Jack and Katie Roth, Cummings Insurance Agency of South Carolina, Casey Papp, Jane Jennings Equestrian, and Tod’s Hill.
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21 Seeds is a female founded company, and a perfect match for Ponies & Pearls with their tagline “Girls Call the Shots.” Founder Kat Hantas began infusing blanco tequila in her Brita filter at home after swapping her nightly glass of wine for tequila nearly a decade ago. She found tequila too harsh
to sip on (no matter the brand) and the flavored spirits too sweet, so she came up with her own recipe. After perfecting it, she began bottling her creations as gifts, never thinking it would become a business. Eight years later it has, and a successful one at that. The star of the evening was Kate the Black Burro, who is one of Brooke USA’s Equine Ambassadors. She travels to events and parties raising awareness and funds for Brooke USA, and at Ponies & Pearls, Kate played bartender too, serving signature drinks out of saddle bags on the lawn to guests. The Caldwell family (parttime New Bridge residents) adopted Kate in 2016 and she began working parties, weddings, and corporate events in 2017. She is famous, being featured in several national publications such as People Magazine and Southern Bride. Kate is an excellent example of a well-kept and cared for working equine. She is a shining role model of Brooke’s goal to educate people on how to care for their working horses, donkeys, and mules. After polo, guests enjoyed a vibrant sunset and a playlist of women’s empowerment songs while dining on street tacos with shrimp, brisket or pork. They also bid on popular items in the silent auction such as jewelry, handbags, artwork, clothing, and more.■ Thank you to the Brooke USA Aiken Advisory Council Members who planned and organized a successful event: Katie Roth (chair) Jillian Barrett, PhD, Joanna Caldwell, Robin Clark, Nancy Goldmark, Mary Guynn, Amy Hebert, Bronwyn Pait, Shelly Schmidt, and Lynn Strauman.
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Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt & Katie Roth
GAME TIME
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THE CENTERPIECE OF NEW BRIDGE LIFE By Katie Roth | Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Gathering around the table evokes so many memories for me Bridge, but would like to come to special events, such as wine of wonderful times spent with friends and family. I wanted dinners. It is also a unique special occasion rental facility the clubhouse to be a place where available for weddings, parties, people could come together in receptions, and meetings. I fell in love with the New Bridge clubhouse that spirit.” - Russ McCall The rustic, colonial style clubhouse has always been the centerpiece of the New Bridge community — a vibrant hub of activity throughout polo season, and the place for post-match cocktails and dinner among players and friends. When it came time to refresh the interior of the clubhouse in winter 2022, New Bridge called upon long-time collaborator Nandina Home & Design. Newly appointed lead designer Christina Scharf was selected for the project. New to Aiken, Christina has a 25-year extensive background in building construction and curated interiors, and as an equestrian (dressage), she was perfect for the project.
and the beautiful Argentinian architectural elements. There is so much rich tradition, rustic elegance, and presence about this structure. My goal was to honor the interior with furnishings that would enhance the vast ceilings and bring pockets of intimacy within the space. Relocating the trophy case to the main dining area allowed us to anchor a small, intimate lounge seating area, that would also serve as a focal point to showcase the collection of beautiful trophies from tournaments all over the world. Draping the tall windows in a neutral textured fabric helped with sound control, while framing the beautiful architectural window elements and making the space feel cozy. This project was a wonderful collaboration with a team of professionals that love the club and want to see it continue to flourish as the social hub. Recently, I returned to enjoy a polo match, and it was great to see the clubhouse alive with members of all ages, sharing their love of a famed equestrian tradition.
BUILDING A MASTERPIECE Founder Russ McCall modeled the New Bridge community around polo clubs in Argentina that are gated for security, have homes that back up to the polo fields, a swimming pool, and a clubhouse for residents. “It was our intention to create the same environment at New Bridge,” said Russ. “We were passionate about certain elements of New Bridge, including creating the best polo fields with consistent footing from end to end, and building an authentic Argentine clubhouse.” “Those details are evident in the property today,” said Russ.
Plans to construct the clubhouse began in 2000. Materials used to build the structure were purchased in Argentina including The clubhouse is enjoying the the walls, floors, beams, doors, revitalization, and it is more and windows. Century-old wood —Christina Scharf, Nandina Home & Designs popular than ever. Once the and windows were chosen for flurry of activity during polo their sturdiness and character. season, the momentum has propelled the clubhouse to stay There were enough materials to fill two 40-foot containers that open year-round, serving dinner and Sunday brunch. Social were shipped to Aiken. A local builder was hired to construct memberships are available to those who do not live in New the building. The frame consists of three sections of eight
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40-foot I-beams — one at the front door, one in the middle wall, and one in the back wall. “We wanted to make sure that the upper deck had sufficient support,” said Russ. “We got a little carried away and ended up building the strongest, most resilient structure imaginable — it can stand up to crowds, weather, just about anything.” The structure itself is not the only sturdy part of the clubhouse. The bar is made of very strong, 200-year-old Argentine wood. “That wood is so hard that they actually ruined several saws cutting it,” said Russ.
The 1,700-square foot clubhouse has expansive front and back porches, a second-floor balcony, foyer, large main room and a window-filled bar with stunning views of adjacent polo field #1. One glitch came at the end of the project when the clubhouse was getting a certificate of occupancy. Because the glass in the windows was old, they were deemed too fragile and failed inspection. The glass in every window had to be replaced with code-compliant glass before the clubhouse could open.
The layout of the clubhouse differs slightly from what you might find in Argentina. A second-floor deck was added off the back for viewing polo, giving the building a much taller roof structure, giving it a very dramatic silhouette. “It is a unique and beautiful building,” said Russ. “There is not another one like it in the world.”
Initially, construction of the clubhouse was budgeted to be a $200,000-$300,00 project, but it ended up costing $900,000. The result is a one-of-a-kind, well-built structure that continues to stand the test of time, and the elements. The clubhouse is not just a building to the members, it is a well-loved, focal point of New Bridge.
RESERVE THE CLUBHOUSE FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT The clubhouse is the perfect venue for all kinds of celebrations and gatherings – from weddings and showers to business meetings. Call Nelson Tamargo (617) 803-9196 for details.
BECOME A SOCIAL MEMBER AT NEW BRIDGE Call Nelson Tamargo (617) 803-9196 for information.
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Unbridle the best version of yourself. Get a Coach!
What’s your direction? Deborah De Vita E3lifeCoach.com 803.292.9999 New Bridge | 2022 | 57
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Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Merrill Lynch Aiken Office 308 Park Ave SW Suite 1000 Aiken, SC 29801-3748
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Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Investment products:
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803.648.8660
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By Katie Roth | Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt On Sunday, June 5, 2022, the polo community came together to show their support for one of Aiken’s favorite polo families, the Coscias. “Polo for Bear” was a special fundraiser at New Bridge Polo & Country Club to benefit the Bear Coscia Medical Fund. Bear is the 3-year old son of Ruben and Anna Coscia. Ruben is a professional polo player and member at New Bridge, and Anna has played in women’s and mixed tournaments as well. In May, Bear spent twelve days in the hospital with a ruptured appendix, which led to further medical complications, and several trips to the emergency room. New Bridge | 2022 | 63
VIP guests arrived to see the New Bridge Clubhouse interior and lawn elegantly decorated in black and white and accented with adorable polar bears. The festivities began with a signature drink of spiked strawberry lemonade and passed hors d’oeuvres as everyone took their seats to watch the exciting all pro 18 goal game. As the players were introduced at the start of the match, Bear rode in the saddle with his father and there was not a dry eye in the house. Bear’s sister Azul was also in attendance, providing support for her big brother. The clubhouse lawn gave over 250 VIP guests the perfect view of the exciting game. The field sidelines were also full of festive tailgates. All proceeds from admission tickets went to the Bear Coscia Medical Fund to help the family with medical bills. Playing for Cooper Home & Stable/ Tipler Law were Alan Martinez (5), Ruben Coscia (4), Marcos Onetto (4), and Dennys Santana (4), facing off against Pelon Escapite (6), Adam Snow (4), Willie Hartnett (4), and Flaco Lisazo (3) for Field One. It was a fast, exciting four chukker game, instead of the traditional six chukkers. There was also a special twist of a two-point line during the match. Cooper Home & Stable/ Tipler Law came out on top 11-4, but if you asked any of the pros, they were all playing for Bear that night. Ruben Coscia was honored with Most Valuable Player, and Dennys Santana’s “Wanda” was named Best Playing Pony. VIP patrons were also offered the opportunity to bid on players during the Calcutta for the long-ball contest. The patron who had the winner of the competition got half of the prize pool, while the Bear Coscia Medical fund got the other half. Justin Pimsner won the highest
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bid on Dennys Santana, who also launched the
Jane and Jerry Mount, Mid State Roofing,
longest ball in the contest. Justin and his wife
Frank Mullins, and the Meeker Family.
Mary Guynn generously donated their half back
Special thanks to Southland Farms, Tyler
to the Bear Coscia Medical Fund.
Press, Powell Asset Protection Agency, AllStar Tents and Events, Security Federal
Lizzie Longears, the working donkey from Black
Bank, flowers by CWS Farms and all of the
Burro Events, was a helpful addition to the cause,
great volunteers for their hard work.
taking donations in her saddle bags for the Bear Coscia Medical fund both on the clubhouse lawn
The entire event was organized in only twelve
and in the tailgate area. No one could resist her!
days by the amazing Polo for Bear planning committee members; Stacie Simpkins, Steve
Guests were served an authentic Argentine asado
Tipler, JD Cooper, Haley Bryan, Raza Kazmi, Katie
(grilled steak, chicken and chorizo with salad
Roth, Parker Scott, and Nelson Tamargo.
and bread) for dinner and there were a variety of coveted items to bid on in the silent auction.
Polo for Bear was very successful, raising $71,800. In the event there are excess funds not needed
Polo for Bear was presented by BlackBerg Ranch.
by the Coscia family, the committee is planning
Platinum sponsors included: Field One, Cooper
to segue into a new charity to aid the polo
Home & Stable/Tipler Law, Dollamor Farm, Adams
community with a fundraiser on a yearly basis.
Farm, and Hit Air. Gold Sponsors included: Un-
When the community rallied together to help
Stable Polo Team, John Humphries, Polo Players
one of their own in need, who could have guessed
Support Group, Cummings Insurance, Goldman’s
that young Bear would be the catalyst to create
Clearing and Site Work, Overbrook Polo, Triple C
a new charity that would give others hope for a
Polo, Foxdale Equine, Broken Taco Polo, SIG Polo,
bright future as well.■
LBL Polo, Cooper Home & Stable, C and C Services,
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By Katie Roth | Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt Since we played our first Chairman’s Cup together in 2010, Frank has been one of my favorite teammates in Aiken. He never puts undo pressure on his players, is happy to tackle any role to help the team, cares deeply for his horses, and is always a good sport, regardless of the game results. Frank played football in high school, and this might be one reason why he is so effective at going to a higher rated player on the opposing team. We have become close friends off the field as well, and I cherish the moments in our kitchen when I can soak up his wealth of knowledge about cooking. In fact, Shelley and I have been making more frequent visits to Birmingham to enjoy his amazing restaurants. A trip I highly recommend! ~Adam Snow
THE THRILL OF THE GAME Award-winning chef and restaurateur Frank Stitt has been coming to New Bridge Polo & Country Club to play polo for more than ten years. Why does he make the five-hour trek from Birmingham to Aiken? For several reasons — the friendships, the facility, and the game itself. “There is a warrior in all of us that loves a challenge,” said Frank. “Polo is a sport where you ride hard, play hard, and I enjoy contributing to the team as much as I can.” Frank loves competition and has always enjoyed contact sports, playing fullback and linebacker on his high school football team. Frank enjoys the exhilaration of being on a winning team, and the camaraderie he shares with his teammates. He has made lasting friendships in polo, including legendary players Adam Snow and Owen Rinehart. He has played with Adam Snow for years, who is an expert on game strategy. Frank has also been coached by former 9-goal player Julio Arellano, and has been teammates with all three Arellano children, Agustin, Lucas and Hope. “Polo players
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are interesting people to be around, they have a keen desire to compete and are attracted to risk,” said Stitt. “We all share a love for the game.” He comes to New Bridge because it is a top-notch facility. “The fields are the best, and it is fun to catch up with other players over a glass of wine at the clubhouse,” Frank said. He also enjoys stick and ball practices and team meetings at Adam’s barn. Frank’s Bottega (also the name of one of his restaurants) polo team has been successful, winning the 2020 USPA National President’s Cup 8 Goal, the 2014 USPA Pete Bostwick Memorial 12 Goal, the 2013 USPA Northrup Knox 12 Goal, the 2012 USPA Pete Bostwick Memorial 14 Goal and the 2012 USPA Hall of Fame Challenge.
But, it’s not just about winning trophies. Frank enjoys the relationships he has with his horses. “I love their spirit, and willingness to work hard for you,” he said. Ceci, Pele, Maria, Prima, Baba and Masamora make up his current string of polo ponies. At a game, you will most likely see Freddy Villar on the sidelines, holding a spare pony for Frank, cheering “come on Frank!” Frank says Freddy is a horse whisperer and the reason his horses are happy and healthy. “Freddy understands the horses, is patient with them and takes such good care of them — without him, I would not be able to play polo,” said Frank. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Freddy came to Palm Beach, Florida and worked under Memo Gracida, and attained a 5-goal handicap as a player. He met Frank when he managed
the Birmingham Polo Club. Freddy trained Frank’s first two polo ponies, Leah and Moonshine, who just recently retired in their upper 20s. Frank’s best friend growing up had quarter horses, so he started riding as a young boy. Shortly after he opened his first restaurant, he bought an Arabian/ Quarter Horse/Thoroughbred cross named Copper to trail ride. He wanted to improve as a rider, so he also took dressage and jumping lessons. A few of his friends played polo and invited him to come out and stick and ball. He thought he would give it a try and fell in love with it instantly. Weston, Frank’s son, has played some polo as well, and Frank looks forward to seeing him play more, and hopes one day they can be teammates. Frank loves to be out on the stick and ball field and keeps himself in shape by working out with a trainer three times a week. That’s a good thing — because he cooks excellent food!
BECOMING THE GODFATHER OF A third generation Alabamian, Frank’s roots in rural Alabama and travels around the world have shaped him into an award-winning chef, Garden & Gun naming him “the godfather of Southern Cuisine.” His style of using simple, Southern ingredients with classic French techniques have made the people of Alabama, and elsewhere, change the way they think about food. Frank grew up in Cullman, a leading agricultural county, where there was a lot of pride in being a family farmer. He recalls visiting his grandparents Eulala and James White on their farm. They had laying hens, an apple orchard, bees and gardens of strawberries, asparagus, beans and peas. His grandfather would milk their Jersey cows and his grandmother would churn it into butter. “My grandmother was an amazing country cook,” Frank said. His grandfather plowed his fields with mules until the early 1960s. His other grandfather was a family doctor, and when Frank returned to open his restaurants, he went to the farmers markets to search out the best produce and build relationships with local farmers. Some of the farmers knew Frank’s grandfather, because he had treated them or a family member at some point.
His mother’s cooking expanded Frank’s palate beyond the traditional Southern table. His parents lived in New York in the late 1940s (he was in medical school, she studied dietetics). Ethnic foods became her passion and The New York Times Cookbook was her reference point. His father’s involvement with the National Board of Surgeons allowed the family to travel to Miami, New Orleans and New York, giving Frank his first exposure to fine dining. “The magic of those restaurants fascinated me,” Frank said. “The sights, smells, sounds, energized atmosphere and anticipation captured my attention and still does.” After high school, Frank ran away from the South as fast as he could. He started at Tufts University in Boston, then transferred to Berkley in San Francisco to study philosophy. Frank found himself drawn more to the poetry of food writers Richard Olney and Elizabeth David over the works of Plato. He began honing his kitchen skills and worked at Alice Waters’ now legendary restaurant, Chez Panisse. Waters introduced him to Richard Olney, and Frank moved to France to become Richard’s assistant while he was working on the multi-volume Time Life series, The Good Cook. During this time, he was able to work with Jeremiah Tower, Simca Beck and Stephen Spurrier. Frank went on to travel throughout the French countryside and work in vineyards in Provence and Burgundy. After leaving France, he worked in the Caribbean at a resort and on a sailboat, before returning to Alabama. Frank wanted to open a restaurant, marrying the Southern foods he knew, with the French cooking techniques he had learned. He could have opened a restaurant anywhere, but he chose to come home to his roots.
PUTTING BIRMINGHAM ON THE CULINARY MAP Highlands neighborhood was Birmingham’s first community close to downtown, with a university complex nearby and affluent suburbs just over the mountain. Frank thought it was the perfect place to open his first restaurant. He found a 1920s building on Highland Avenue with a Mediterranean-type façade. Inside, a drop-in, acoustic tile ceiling was hiding magnificent architectural bones, including a stunning, coffered ceiling with great detailing, a grand fireplace opposite beautiful columns with masonry capitals that formed an arcade. An adjoining room was the perfect size for a bar. Frank opened Highlands Bar & Grill in 1982 and never looked back. The restaurant has received many national honors, including the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2018. On his way to Highlands almost daily, Frank would pass a limestone, Palladian-style building built in the 1920s with a terra cotta tiled roof, Corinthian columns and a façade of gaping stone arches. The words “Bottega Favorita” are chiseled into the façade (“Bottega” is Italian for an artisan’s workshop where one’s craft is made in the back and sold in the front). He dreamed of opening a restaurant where he could share his love of the flavors and traditions of Italy, and in 1988, it became a reality. Bottega was successful from the start and is one of Birmingham’s best restaurants.
In all three of Frank’s restaurants, guests feel like they are being taken care of. His wife Pardis focuses on front of the house operations; her charm and elegance are part of the reasons why guests return time and time again. Each member of the staff extends a graciousness and hospitality that makes everyone feel special. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the guest experience, from the crisp tablecloths to the music and the aromatic smells of fresh thyme, rosemary, lemon and garlic wafting through the restaurant. The consideration of how each item is plated, both aesthetically and geometrically, is one of the nuances which sets his restaurants apart.
Not one to sit on his laurels, Frank opened his third restaurant, Chez Fonfon in 2000. The bistro pays homage to comforting French fare with favorites including steak frites, sautéed trout with brown butter and escargots, along with wines from the Loire, Rhône and Languedoc. A 100-year-old etched glass door and Belle Époque café tables make guests feel like they are in Paris, Lyon or Nice, but they are actually next door to Highlands Bar and Grill. Frank loves French culture, and Chez Fonfon is his way of bringing that spirit and food to Birmingham.
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IT’S ALL ABOUT RESPECT Frank is a coach, teaching his team love, kindness, and respect not only to the ingredients, but also to the rancher, farmer, fisherman and their fellow workers. He is highly committed to sustainable agriculture and humane animal husbandry, and was one of the first Alabama chefs to champion these practices. He started by noting on his menus where ingredients came from, paying tribute to local growers and farmers. Frank shows his staff how livestock should be cared for ethically by taking them on field trips to farms that share best practices, such as Joyce Farms. “If you care for the ingredients, your love for the food will show up on the plate in the dining room,” said Frank.
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A WORKING FARM About 35 miles from Birmingham is Frank and Pardis’ Paradise Farm. The farm not only takes Frank back to his roots of growing up in Cullman, it serves as home to his polo ponies and provides the perfect setting for growing and harvesting vegetables. There is a barn for the ponies, an arena for riding, a house for the hens, more than twenty raised beds for flowers and vegetables and a grove of fig trees. Freddy not only takes care of the ponies, he has been the Farm Manager at Paradise for the past twelve years. “I taught Frank about polo, and he has taught me about agriculture,” Freddy said. The hen house sits on a cotton wagon frame so it can be moved around the pasture easily to responsibly spread the manure and the openings on the sides make a quick, clean way to retrieve the eggs. Bruce the goose guards 160 Buff Orpingtons, Dominickers and Araucana chickens. These heritage breed birds happily roam the pasture eating bugs and grass seed, which in turn produces healthy, colorful eggs. At the height of laying season, they can each lay one a day. 76 | 2022 | New Bridge
True to Frank’s vision of sustainability, everything here has a purpose. Eggs are collected and vegetables such as heirloom tomatoes, okra, carrots, radishes, sweet peas, asparagus, collard greens, kale and chard are harvested once or twice a week and delivered to the restaurants. Figs are a popular menu item at Bottega (roasted figs, walnuts, prosciutto, lemon mint cream) and the leaves are used to cook chicken and fish at the restaurants. Bright orange Chanterelle mushrooms are harvested in the woods.Vegetable trimmings, coffee grounds, manure, shavings and leaves are collected and combined for rich compost. The farm is also home to peacocks, guinea hens, Fernando the blue heeler, and Nacho, a mixed breed that once was a stray, but decided this is indeed, paradise.
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FULL CIRCLE
Frank’s sense of adventure, thirst for knowledge, and propensity to put his heart and soul into everything he does is what has made him so successful. His legacy will continue, as his daughter, Marie and her husband Edward, have opened two cafés in Charleston. Babas on Cannon and Babas on Meeting are inspired by neighborhood cafés and bars in Europe. Weston is currently learning the restaurant business, so that he may take over one day when Frank and Pardis decide to slow down. ■
AWARDS
James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant in 2018, after being nominated for the prestigious award each year since 2009 (Highlands Bar & Grill) Horst H. Schulze Award for Excellence in Hospitality, Auburn University (2017) Inducted into Esquire magazine’s Restaurant Hall of Fame (2011) Inducted into James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America” (2011) Inducted into Alabama Academy of Honor, the most distinguished award given to an Alabamian (2009) Nominated for James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Chef (2008) Craig Claiborne Lifetime Achievement Award from the Southern Foodways Alliance (2006) James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef: Southeast (2001) Award-winning cookbooks: Frank Stitt’s Southern Table: Recipes and Gracious Traditions from Highlands Bar and Grill (Artisan Books, 2004) and Bottega Favorita: A Southern Chef ’s Love Affair with Italian Food (Artisan Books, 2009)
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The New Bridge Magazine celebrates ten years of spectacular editions. We love how they are found on many coffee tables as keepsakes. We are honored to be recognized for our creative work and we are proud of the many awards we have won over the years. 2021-2022 | 1st Place American Horse Publication’s Equine Media Awards 2020-2021 | 1st Place American Horse Publication’s Equine Media Awards 2019-2020 | 1st Place American Horse Publication’s Equine Media Awards | Two Silver Addys 2018-2019 | 2nd Place American Horse Publication’s Equine Media Awards | Gold Addy | Bronze Addy 2017-2018 | 1st Place American Horse Publication’s Equine Media Awards | Gold Addy | Best in Show Winner
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Lucas Arellano provides a little behind the scenes puppetry with Toothless and Good Sister to get the 2020-2021 cover shot.
Elements of a Photo Shoot: Concept • Script • Talent • Assistants • Stylist • Props ...DISTRACTIONS ... ANTICS ... PHOTOBOMBERS... 82 | 2022 | New Bridge
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Southern Equine Service 1258 Banks Mill Road Aiken, SC 29803 (803)644-1544 www.southernequineservice.com New Bridge | 2022 | 83
Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt | Styling by Sol Di Ciurcio & Katie Roth Facing page: The relaxed, heavyweight Ingrid Sweater will keep you warm and cozy during those chilly days. A horizontal knitting pattern adds a fun design detail. Available in dutch blue, sky grey, pearl, moss and fawn (shown).
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4 Loving People
Nested in the steppes of Mongolia, the Zalaa Jinst white goats roam their lands. Under the care of Nomadic herders with deeply rooted ancient traditions, cashmere is hand combed and the journey of 4 Loving People’s brand begins. The land, as fierce as it is beautiful, experiences temperatures ranging from chills of -58 degrees to the relentless heat of 104 degrees. Harsh weather and high altitude result in the finest cashmere coat produced by the Zalaa Jinst white goats – a cashmere and landscape you simply won’t find anywhere else in the world. Only environmentally sustainable techniques are used for gathering and processing the cashmere. Cultivated in socially responsible hand-selected factories, the delicate fiber is worked with the heaviest emphasis on quality and tradition. 4 Loving People is founded by cashmere lovers with a passion for sustainability, extraordinary quality, and ancient tradition which can be felt in each garment. To learn more about 4 Loving People and to shop their cashmere, visit 4lovingpeople.com, @4lovingpeopleofficial.
www.4lovingpeople.com Follow @4lovingpeopleofficial Facing Page: The Ingrid Sweater turtleneck is soft and snug for chilly temperatures. Available in dutch blue, sky grey, pearl, fawn and moss (shown). Leather and silver beaded bracelet from Jesusa Accessories, @jesusaaccesorios. Top:The lightweight, open weave, crop Greta Cardigan is elegant with a horn button closure. Pair it with jeans or over a dress, it is a versatile piece for your closet. Available in dutch blue, fawn and moss (shown). Bottom: The Hustai Turtleneck wraps you in comfort. The flattering soft silhouette, detailed stitching, and relaxed feel make for cozy elegance. Available in black, soft grey, fawn, and pearl (shown).
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Above: Warm and stylish, the Hooded Anji Poncho has a modern graphic twist that is earthy and free. It will become your go-to for running errands or walking the dog. Crocodile cuff by Allie Azzaro Designs, @allie_azzaro_designs. Facing Page: You will want to live in the long hem, fun-loving, Molly Turtleneck. Ribbed arms, detailed sides, shoulder inside-out seams, and a side 4 Loving People signature give it a playful sensibility. Pair it with jeans or wear it as a dress. Available in charcoal, pearl or fawn, or clementine (shown). Crocodile cuff by Allie Azzaro Designs, @allie_azzaro_designs.
Above: As the weather gets cold, you’ll need The Ingrid Sweater, our heavyweight favorite with horizontal knitting details, to keep you warm. Available in dutch blue, sky grey, pearl, fawn and moss (shown). Leather and silver beaded bracelet from Jesusa Accessories, @jesusaaccesorios. Facing page: The versatile Hustai turtleneck makes an adorable dress, or pair it with jeans. The soft silhouette is a must have for your wardrobe. Available in clementine, charcoal, fawn or pearl (shown).
CLOTHES HORSE
MIKE HOSANG 803.270.6358 www.CarolinaCompany.com MikeHosang@bellsouth.net
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Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt Styling by Anna Coscia & Katie Roth
Ruben is an accomplished professional polo player who is also widely respected by his peers. Originally from Manzanares, Pilar, Argentina, Ruben came to the United States in 1988 to pursue polo and eventually attained a 6-goal handicap. His wife, Anna, grew up in polo, grooming and hot walking horses for her uncles. She also plays in ladies and mixed tournaments. Polo is not only the family business for Ruben and Anna, it is also their shared passion.They work well together to continually build their string of ponies, balancing each other’s strengths with each horse’s personality.
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baby india Flashy Baby India is an 8-year old homebred, ¾ Thoroughbred, ¼ Argentine mare. Her grandmother, named India, was one of Ruben’s first horses when he started playing polo and he also owned her mother, India. She was started by Anna and finished by Ruben. Baby India is handy, powerful, and wins every bump. She has several Best Playing Pony titles to her credit with many more in her future.
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negra
Negra is a 16-year old off-the-track Thoroughbred mare. She was made by Ruben’s brother, Diego. She has been awarded multiple Best Playing Pony honors, and has been Ruben’s best horse for a number of years. Negra is catlike quick, powerful, and has a great mouth.
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Milica Milica is an 11-year old off-the-track Thoroughbred mare, bought from Jorge Vasquez, sporting his distinctive brand. She was trained by Anna and Ruben and played her first chukker like a made horse. She has multiple Best Playing Pony titles to her credit.
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sport Sport is an 11-year old Argentine gelding and one of the newest additions to Ruben’s string. Sport is super handy, correct, and easy to play. He has acquired multiple Best Playing Pony honors in just his first year with Ruben.
marley Marley is a 12-year old Thoroughbred gelding. He was started by Ruben’s brother, Diego and Ruben purchased him when he was still green and finished him. Marley is now the fastest horse in Ruben’s string.
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Sorpresa Sorpresa is a 12-year-old Thoroughbred mare. Purchased from Kentucky as an unbroken 3-year old, she was started and trained by Anna. Sorpresa is easy and fun to play for either a sponsor or a pro.
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negrita Negrita is a 15-year old off-the-track Thoroughbred. She was purchased as a 3-year old and trained by Ruben. Negrita is powerful and gets you anywhere you want to go on the field. She is always sound. Negrita was awarded Best Playing Pony in the 2018 USPA Bronze Cup® 12 Goal final at New Bridge.
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New Bridge Sponsor Spotlight: LEILANI ROSE PACHECO Founder, Gold Wowie® CBD and Gold Wowie® Equine By Katie Roth | Photos by Shelly Marshall Schmidt New Bridge Polo Club sponsor, property owner, and entrepreneur, Leilani Rose Pacheco is a force of nature in the popular arena of CBD companies. She has built her business from the ground up, and offers the best products on the market. She created her brand of CBD products to help people and animals suffering from different afflictions, offering a holistic way of relief.Today, her brand is celebrated and sold exclusively at some of the best wellness centers in the world. Gold Wowie® CBD and Gold Wowie® Equine are full spectrum CBD oils that contain trace amounts of THC (no more than 0.3 percent per serving). They are non-psychoactive and will not get you, your pets, or animals “high.” Gold Wowie products are unique because they are proven to be effective, unlike most other CBD oils.They are third-party lab tested and come with the product Certificate of Analysis (COA), so you know the ingredients on the label are actually in your products. Gold Wowie® CBD products come in a variety of forms including; tinctures (oil drops), fruit slice gummies, cooling roll-on, topical salve, liquid softgels, and watermelon and strawberry cubes. Gold Wowie® Equine tincture is the highest milligram full-spectrum CBD oil on the market today. Recently relocating from Hawaii to Aiken, Leilani is a certified MagnaWave practitioner, a certified cannabis medicinal practitioner, and has extensive knowledge of Hawaiian La’au Lapa’au (Hawaiian holistic medicine). Gold Wowie® Equine therapy provides owners of high performance horses a holistic approach to wellness including MagnaWavePEMF, LZR lasers, percussion & Lomi Lomi massage. Leilani brings a wave of knowledge, enthusiasm, warmth, and kindness to New Bridge Polo Club. Her fascinating history, drive to help humans and animals, motivation for success, and spirit for adventure are a story to share.
‘IMI OLA: (ee-me-oh-lah) Hawaiian word to “seek our best life.” The importance of working to become the best version of ourselves every day.
WHY DID YOU START A CBD COMPANY?
I come from a fourth-generation ranching family on the big island of Hawaii. As a child, we had one hospital, one doctor, and no urgent care. Unless we were really sick or injured, we went to a “Kahuna La’au Lapa’au” (Hawaiian medicinal healer) instead of a doctor. We were given holistic treatments such as Hawaiian medicinal herbs, or a Lomi Lomi massage, a traditional Hawaiian massage that uses a combination of massage techniques, and sometimes elements of prayer, breathing, and dance, to restore energy and soothe the body. My mother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at the young age of 40 years old. After Western medical centers came to the island of Kona, the doctors gave her pills for everything under the sun, which led to a severe onslaught of Parkinson’s symptoms. My family and I were losing my mother at a rapid rate, so we put her on CBD as a last resort. From that point, I saw how cannabis improved my mother’s overall health. I thought it was a shame that cannabis, or “pakalolo” as we called it, had always been given such a negative stigma. When I saw how much my mother had improved, I knew I wanted to study and research cannabis. I had experienced what it could do firsthand for my mother. I received a certified degree from the Trichome Institute in Cannabis Medicinal Dosing, and I researched how cannabis helps anxiety, depression, seizures, mood, pain, and so many illnesses. Then I decided to start my brands Gold Wowie® CBD & Gold Wowie® Equine.
WHERE DID THE NAME GOLD WOWIE® COME FROM? I wanted our brand to pay homage to Hawaii’s most famous cannabis strains. “Kona Gold” & “Maui Wowie.” I grew up growing and having “pakalolo” (cannabis) around as a kid — it was like growing orchids back in the 70’s. Everyone had it, everyone grew it. It was in itself, a medicinal plant to us.
WHAT IS THE STATUS OF YOUR BRANDS TODAY?
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Gold Wowie® CBD is the premier supplier to many of the top wellness centers, veterinarians, physicians, and chiropractors around the country. Gold Wowie® is also the premier supplier to MagnaWave PEMF, which has over 2,000 practitioners, and the Parker Muscle & Sports Clinic, a leading injury recovery chiropractic center. The Parker team works with top professional athletes and Olympians all over the world.
WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO GROW UP IN HAWAII?
It was all about culture and tradition. I learned hula at a young age, studied Hawaiiana, and my great-grandfather was the Sheriff for King Kamehameha in the 1800’s (Hawaii was a monarchy until 1917). My grandfather was a pioneer farmer in the Kona coffee industry, which today is renowned as one of the best coffees in the world. One of my fondest memories was picking coffee alongside my grandfather, and having the Nightingale donkeys not only as pets, but as working partners with us side by side. It was a labor-intensive process. It would have been impossible to have worked our coffee farm without them. That is why I love animals so much. I also love deep sea fishing, and I competed in the largest “Wahine” (ladies) tournament in the World. All “Kama’aina” (locals) got along, and the “Ohana” (family) culture is what I loved the most. There is beauty on a scale in Hawaii that most cannot imagine.
DID YOU GROW UP WITH HORSES?
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO AIKEN FROM HAWAII?
I literally was born with horses in my
I get this question every time I meet someone! It’s a bittersweet story, but unfortunately, I lost
backyard, and I have ridden horses
my brother and my mother in a back-to-back scenario. I decided at that time that I wanted to
my entire life. We owned a ranch, so
re-evaluate my life, and I was looking for a place that was “all about horses.” I randomly saw a
Western was the go-to discipline. My
video on YouTube of New Bridge and couldn’t believe a community existed like this! I bought
dad and brother were on the rodeo
my property sight unseen, and flew to Aiken to check out this wonderful place. I loved the
circuit. I was a barrel racer, and also won
charm of a small town, friendly people, and of course everything horses! When you lose family
numerous awards showing in Western
members, sometimes it can be a double-edged sword. As beautiful as Hawaii is, there were
disciplines in horse shows most of my
constant reminders of those I had lost all around me. So, it was a big decision to make at that
life, until I went to college.
time, but I have never looked back, and have made Aiken my permanent residence.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT AIKEN SO FAR?
I have to say that I have lived and traveled to some of the most beautiful places in my life, and the weather in Aiken is really comparable to Hawaii! With the exception of a couple hot summer months, Hawaii can also get pretty hot and humid. We also have snow on Mauna Kea (the second largest peak next to Mt. Everest) on the Big Island, so it gets chilly during the winter months just like Aiken. However, I love horses, and all the disciplines to me are so fascinating and exciting! I have also met the nicest people that I know will be my new Aiken “Ohana” (family) for years to come. I have never once regretted leaving my hometown of Hawaii to move here, as everyone has welcomed me with open arms, and New Bridge Polo & Country Club is such a huge part of my life, and it brings me such joy.
WHAT DREW YOU TO NEW BRIDGE? What is there not to like about New Bridge (LOL)! It is simply a gorgeous area, surrounded by nature, horses, the nicest polo fields, and my neighbors that are kind and come from all walks of life and different areas. Every time I drive through the gates, I feel so fortunate to be living the life that I have.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE NEW BRIDGE AS A PLACE TO PURCHASE LAND?
It is a one-of-a-kind community period. The people, location, and beauty are so astounding. Also, coming from one of the most expensive places in the world to live, I couldn’t believe how affordable it was to buy property! The country club is also such a relaxed environment, and I was tired of the “high society” lifestyle, it bored me to tears. I prefer surrounding myself with real down-to-earth people. I enjoy knowing everyone (including the staff) when I go into the club, and it feels like going to someone’s beautiful
WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO BE A SPONSOR AT NEW BRIDGE?
Argentinian-style home. Growing up in Hawaii in the 70’s, women were not allowed to play polo! Having the opportunity now years later, to be able to take lessons from one of the top female polo players, was one of the highlights of my life! Also, as a female, I wanted to be a role model for other young women, and sponsor a sport that I was not allowed to play as a teen. Life is full circle, and I am excited to be a part of the New Bridge Polo community, and to be able to also support and sponsor other Aiken local charities.■ To shop Gold Wowie® CBD and Gold Wowie® Equine, visit goldwowie.com.
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Gifts Fine Paper Home Decor Jewelry Accessories & MORE!
141 Laurens Street 3MonkeysAiken.com 803.648.7592
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CREDITS: Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt, Oh Schmidt Productions Supplemental photos by Katie Roth Layout: Jaime Johnson Designs Proofreading: Janet DePrince “New Bridge, Room to Play, Ride, Live” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt Featuring: Ruben Coscia, Stephen Burr, Hope Arellano, Marcos Onetto. Will Green, Andrew Scott, Pelon Escapite, Mary Guynn, Summer Cogan, Justin Pimsner, Judy Storey, Amanda Wilson, Trevor Niznik, Malia Bryan, Alison Patricelli, Alan Martinez “Member Spotlight: A Homecoming Story” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt Featuring: Mary Guynn & Justin Pimsner “Ponies and Pearls” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Game Time” Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt Supplemental photos by Katie Roth “The Centerpiece of New Bridge Life” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Polo for Bear” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 3 Monkeys..................................................................113 ADT Security.............................................................BC AgSouth Farm Credit.................................................. 7 Aiken Audiology.......................................................114 Aiken County Farm Supply......................................27
Aiken Regional Medical Center.........................20
Aiken Saddlery............................................................51 Aiken Vet Clinic.........................................................120 Banks Mill Feeds ......................................................113 Black Burro Events ...................................................56 Broken Taco Polo.......................................................58 Brooke USA..............................................................114 Carolina Real Estate Company...............................62 Center For Dentistry................................................35 Coastal Carolina National Bank.................... 21, 107 Cooper Home & Stable............................................34 Cooper Motor Company.........................................40 Cork And Cap.............................................................57 Cote Designs............................................................106 Debbie Roland, Coldwell Banker............................51 E3 Life Coach..............................................................57 Enviroscape..................................................................34 Equine Divine..............................................................66 Floyd & Green Fine Jewelers..................................... 4 Foxdale Equine DMV.................................................59 Gold Wowie CBD........................................................ 9 Hairknowlogy..............................................................79 Jack Roth, Carolina Real Estate Co......................118 Katie Roth.................................................................120
La Parisienne.............................................................113 Lionel Smith, LTD......................................................117 Menagerie....................................................................92 Merrill Lynch, Jamin King..........................................58 Mike Hosang, Carolina Real Estate Co..................92 Nandina........................................................................50 New Bridge Mounted Patrol...................................27 Palmetto Dog Cllub...................................................67 Pedego Electric Bikes................................................61 Rock Creek Irrigation & Landscape.....................107 Ronnie’s Hitches and Trailers..................................61 Sharer Dale, Keller Williams Realty.................... IBC Shelly Marshall Schmidt...................................... 56,60 Shoemaker Equipment Supply.......................... 28, 62 Southern Dental Assoc., Dr. Matthew Wall........120 Southern Equine Service..........................................83 State Farm, Scott Saul.............................................107 The Pro Shop at New Bridge Polo Club..............67 The Saddle Doctor..................................................120 The Tackeria..............................................................115 The Willcox................................................................... 2 The Wills Agency, Nationwide.................................33 Tumbleweeds...............................................................36 United Real Estate, Brenda Daly.............................60 United States Polo Association.............................IFC USPA Global Licensing................................................ 8 Whisper Farm.............................................................93 White Rose Eclectics................................................92 Wolf Construction ..................................................... 6
“Respect is the First Ingredient” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Celebrating 10 Years” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Picture Perfect? Not Always…” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Clothes Horse” Story: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt Featuring: 4 Loving People Pure Cashmere Styling: Sol Di Ciurcio & Katie Roth Models: Sol Di Ciurcio & Matt Coppola “Las Modelos” Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt Styling: Anna Coscia & Katie Roth Featuring: Ruben Coscia’s String Horses: Baby India, Negra, Milica, Sport, Marley, Sorpresa, Negrita “New Bridge Sponsor Spotlight: Leilani Rose Pacheco” Story & Styling: Katie Roth Photography: Shelly Marshall Schmidt “Ride Off” Photography: Shelly Marshall Featuring: Frank Stitt, Freddy Villar, Moonshine, and Leah
available in downtown Aiken
lionelsmithltd.com
Quote by Marcel Proust. Pictured l - r: Frank Stitt, Moonshine, Leah and Freddy Villar
Game Photography & Custom Prints Styled, Custom Photo Shoots Katie Roth (803) 341-8800 katiegirlroth@gmail.com
- Since 1981 -
The Saddle Doctor 538 Two Notch Road • Aiken, SC 29803
(803) 642-5166 Holly M. Spencer hollymacspencer@aol.com Offering Quality Repairs and Custom Alterations to your Tack and Horse Clothing • Dressage boot zippers installed & replaced (black metal zippers)
• Saddles reflocked (100% wool flocking) • Billets replaced: Dressage (long) or standard (short) • Knee rolls restuffed, recovered & replace • Seats replaced and repaired • Bridles repaired and altered to fit • Custom dressage reins - call for details
@USPOLOASSOCIATION @USPOLOASSOCIATION @POLOASSOCIATION
From Cottage to Castle… Big or Small…
Jenni Beak Rachel Clough Kathleen Byrd Sharer Dale Stephanie Slade Brooke Thomas Madi McEvoy
Get in the Game
Learn to play. Visit uspolo.org.
Sharer Dale Team Sells it All!
Glenarvon Farm in Chime Bell Chase
Honey Ridge Farm in Hatchaway Bridge
(803) 761-0678
Barn Cam 4 2022- 7-14 13:22:44
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