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
68 | 2022 | New Bridge