Argentina’s polo prowess is undeniable, and our fans can’t seem to get enough of it! There’s something about the nation that breeds incredible talent, and Newport has been lucky enough to experience it firsthand. The bond between Newport and Team Argentina is over 30 years strong, and we’re excited to share their story with you.
The sport of polo is synonymous with Argentina. While polo’s origins date back to around 2000 BC in Asia, Argentina took the reins once British soldiers introduced the sport in 1875, and immediately flourished much like Argentina’s native flower, the Erythrina crista-galli!i
The popularity of the sport grew rapidly in Argentina, and the people of Argentina have proved to be particularly talented at the game. During the short time that polo was played as an Olympic sport, teams from Argentina competed and took home the gold on both occasions. Argentina today is the Mecca for polo aficionados. In Buenos Aires every December, as many as 30,000 polo fans pour into the ahterdral of polo, Palermo’s stadium to witness the Argentine Open, the world’s most prestigious polo tournament.
What is it about Argentina that produces such incredible players? “Dedication, hours playing and practicing at the highest levels, and learning to ride as soon as you are able to walk” says Newport Polo’s resident professional USPA Umpire and former professional player, Ernesto Ezcurra. Ezcurra grew up in Argentina as a second-generation polo player, with two brothers who also play professionally. “We start with the foot mallet, riding bareback and learn balance, strategy and technique until you perfect it.”
Argentina first competed in the Newport Polo International Series during the inaugural season of 1991, in a lineup of challengers that included the world’s top contenders in the sport of polo. Similarly, Newport, has a long-standing history with the sport, whose beginning with The Westchester Polo Club in 1876, which was resurrected in 1991 by Newport Polo founder, Dan Keating.
Newport Polo is ecstatic to announce the return of Polo Powerhouse friends, Argentina to BD Field on August 3, 2024 to compete and as the very special guests of the 23rd annual International Polo Charity Ball at the impeccable and newly renovated Rosecliff Mansion on famed, Bellevue Avenue in Newport. Argentina looks to build off their 2022 victory in Newport led by Estanito Puch and make it two in a row for the polo monoliths.
“Community stewardship is one of Newport Polo’s core principles,” commented Founder, Dan Keating. “Charitable initiatives preceded the start of the Newport International Polo Series over three decades ago, with the first two Rotary Benefit Matches, and we will continue to build on past success to support our community.”
While the head to head matchup between both goliaths is nearly deadlock, the comradery is certainly even. Throughout three decades of friendship, USA and Argentina has broke bread many of times at Newport hotspot, The Clarke Cooke House and hosted meet and greets with the loyalist of Newport Polo fans throughout town! While we bide our time until the Charity Ball at Rosecliff on August 2nd, Newport Polo invites nominations for the gala beneficiary. To learn more and submit your bid, please visit, http://www.nptpolo.com/?e=event&eventId=35533. Newport Polo and bonded international teams such as Argentina has raised over $2 million dollars over the last 32 years through the Charity Ball and other fundraising initiatives.
The sacred saga continues into 2024 on August 3rd when Argentina hits BD Field to face friendly foes, USA. Make sure to subscribe to the Newport Polo eMagazine stay up to date for the Gala theme, beneficiary, Team Argentina Meet & Greet, and Apres Polo! (sign up). 5,318 miles may separate Argentina and Newport but as our boludos from the South say, “A good friend is better than a near relation.” ¡Salud! to Argentina!