Top Riders Excited With 2025 Season Underway

United States show jumping athlete Lillie Keenan and German dressage U25 European champion Felicitas Hendricks were among the leaders in the equestrian industry who gather on the first Thursday morning of the 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival and Adequan Global Dressage Festival, expressing great optimism in the opportunities available at Wellington International this season.

As part of the new US Equestrian Open, both dressage and show jumping athletes will have the opportunity to compete on one of the biggest stages worldwide. The US Equestrian Open of Jumping Final, the culminating event known each year as the Rolex Grand Prix, has jumped from $500,000 to $750,000 in prize money.

Keenan, one of the riders with her eye set on that Rolex US Equestrian Open CSI5* Grand Prix, has skyrocketed through the world rankings over the past few years of international competition, both in Wellington and beyond.

“I’ve been coming to Wellington for 20 years,” said Keenan, now 28. “I have jumped FEI here for about 12 [years], and it’s the one time of year that we actually get to stay in one place, which is so wonderful.”

Keenan referenced her most recent CSI5* Grand Prix winner, the 2014 stallion Kick On, and how the horse started the 2024 WEF season in the 1.30m, advancing all the way to a clear round in the 1.50m final.

“I think that’s something that’s so unique about this place, that we are able to bring horses to the very top level in conditions that they’re the most comfortable in,” she said.

Keenan has risen from the ponies to the Grand Prix podium in Wellington, and the venue has allowed her to not only thrive but to take her offerings to the next level.

“It’s a unique opportunity for us to also develop our business,” she continued. “I’m able to teach students here, and actually my mom still rides, and I get to ride with her every single day at home. It’s the one time of year that we get to all be together.”

With a full string of both up-and-coming and seasoned mounts, Keenan sees plenty of opportunity to give every horse the time and attention it needs, from daily jumping opportunities to some of the show calendar’s biggest events, all strategically forming part of her complex plan to approach championship events in future years, all leading up to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, the AGDF is setting the stage for its biggest year as well, featuring seven US Dressage Open Qualifiers, four CDI World Cup Qualifiers, the CDIO3* Nations Cup, a CDI5* event and 10 national shows. The schedule will also feature two CPEDI events — international shows for para dressage athletes — which began at Wellington International in 2016 right before the Rio Olympics.

“The sport of para in this country has grown so much,” AGDF Director of Sport Thomas Baur said. “They won, in total, eight medals in Paris, and five were gold. I think that is also a tribute to Wellington. We were a part of that journey. That was quite a success story over the years.”

The number one, two and three-ranked paralympic riders are all United States riders, pointed out Wellington International CEO Murray Kessler, who noted that there were no Americans in the top 10 prior to the para dressage program beginning in 2016.

The CDI competition will be fierce as well, with additional athletes and champions returning to Wellington International.

Hendricks is back for another season after a career high in 2024, scoring her first Friday Night Stars CDI5* victory in the 2024 edition of the AGDF. The 24-year-old began competing in Wellington in her early teens and has grown to become one of the most recognized U25 dressage athletes worldwide.

“Wellington has been the kickstart of everything for me,” Hendricks said. “Whether it was juniors or seniors, I really went all the way. I’m always so happy to prepare [her mount Drombusch OLD] for the European season over here because the conditions are just amazing. The competition organization is fantastic. It’s just perfect conditions all over, so it’s always the perfect start of the season.”

Still in an early phase of her career but with huge successes under her belt already, Hendricks knows being in Wellington sets the stage for the preparation that goes into arriving at the major championships on her bucket list.

“I feel like every professional rider’s ultimate dream is going to big championships and going to the Olympics,” Henricks explained. “But this is just a very long-term goal for the future; for now, with Drombusch, I’m just really going to try to go as far as we can.”

Hendricks and Keenan agreed that they love the energy and atmosphere they get from competing under the lights throughout the winter season.

“I think the special thing about it is the positive vibe,” Hendricks said of competing at AGDF’s Friday Night Stars. “Everyone is cheering you on, and even if a mistake happens, they really feel for you and they want you to do well. I think that’s very special.”

Keenan has jumped many Saturday Night Lights at WEF over her years as a show jumper and agrees there’s nothing quite like it.

“The atmosphere is electric, and the best horses really grow in that condition,” she said. “It’s incredible because we get to do it quite a few times if you’re lucky enough to have a Grand Prix horse that you get to jump on Saturday nights here. Then throughout the year, you feel the most comfortable in that atmosphere, and I guarantee you when the crowd gets into it, we do better.”

Varvarigos Family Has Created An Enduring Floral Legacy In Wellington And Beyond

Story By Mike May  |  Photos by Frank Koester

A family that works together has a great chance of staying together and thriving together. Wellington’s Varvarigos family started Wellington Florist back in the early 1990s and still operates the business today, bringing smiles to the faces of generations of area residents.

For more than 30 years, people have turned to Wellington Florist whenever they need a bit of color and joy in their life, and sometimes for help getting through times of sorrow.

Back in 1991, the business was founded by Dean and Melinda Varvarigos. Even though Dean passed away in 2017 and Melinda is now mostly retired, the business remains in the Varvarigos family, now managed by their son, J.P. He has been running the business since 2010.

Wellington Florist — which encourages customers to “Stop In and Smell the Flowers” — is busy throughout the year assembling flower arrangements and bouquets for every conceivable special occasion, such as birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, graduations, weddings, retirements, gala celebrations, funerals, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and, yes, big events on Wellington’s equestrian scene, too.

“It’s not boring; it’s a creative business,” Melinda said. “Many of our customers let us do what we want, so you are able to go beyond and learn more by creating.”

The annual calendar presents a never-ending series of dates that require a flower arrangement of some kind. At Wellington Florist, every day is different, and the store offers every possible flower arrangement for every possible occasion.

“It’s a wild ride,” said J.P. with a smile. “Valentine’s Day is our most profitable day of the year, but Mother’s Day is our biggest day of the year, volume-wise. We have roughly 65 deliveries a day, and as many as 1,000 deliveries on Valentine’s Day.”

And, of course, on many occasions, customers will walk into Wellington Florist to buy flowers for a significant other just out of love and appreciation.

“In recent years, we’ve doubled our walk-in business,” J.P. said. “It helps that we now sell wine, chocolate, candles and Jellycats, which are like Beanie Babies.”

In many respects, J.P. was always meant to work in the flower industry. Selling flower arrangements is in his DNA. If you look at the Varvarigos family tree, one of his grandfathers was a florist in Queens, New York. His uncles and cousins in New York also worked in the flower business. And his parents met one another while working for Buning the Florist in Fort Lauderdale in the late 1970s. They got married in 1980 and operated Richard’s Florist in Fort Lauderdale for about 10 years. Then, they made the big move to Wellington to open and operate Wellington Florist. At the time, J.P. was 11 years old.

That was a transformational transition for all concerned.

Through the years, the Varvarigos family has helped Wellington Florist along as it has blossomed, changed and grown, both in terms of the size of the store and its bottom line. A good example of how Wellington Florist has grown in the last 30 years is that the business currently has more square footage set aside just for coolers than the entire size of the store back in the early 1990s.

It didn’t take long for Dean and Melinda Varvarigos to become established and entrenched within the fabric of the Wellington community. They both took great pride in owning a Wellington-based business. And son J.P. feels that same way.

Melinda’s creativity with arrangements earned her the highest accreditation that a florist can earn from the American Institute of Floral Designers, while Dean was one of the founders of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. They were both exemplary leaders in their own way. Today, J.P. is following in their footsteps. He takes an active role in the community he grew up in, sitting on the board of the Wellington Community Foundation.

Early on, however, J.P. never had any interest in the flower business. Instead, he was focused on the food business. “I wanted to be a chef,” he recalled.

After graduating from Wellington High School in 1998, J.P. attended culinary school in New York. He wanted to make his fortune in the restaurant business. However, the tragedy of 9/11 caused him to change plans. “After 9/11, it was tough making a living as a chef,” he explained.

So, J.P. returned to Palm Beach County to start a food catering business. It was a struggle, most of his business was on the weekends and it wasn’t steady. He also started dating Melissa, who eventually became his wife. She was a teacher at Wellington High School. She had professional stability, and he did not. To this day, Melissa Varvarigos is still at WHS, where she teaches biology and is the head of the science department.

“She was working days, and I was working nights and weekends, so we never saw each other,” J.P. recalled.

While he was trying to figure out his future, Dean and Melinda asked him to help answer the phones at Wellington Florist for just one day. It was Valentine’s Day in 2003. And he never left.

When compared to the food industry, J.P. likes the hours of a florist, which are more conventional and structured — but not on Valentine’s Day.

“I quickly realized that there were many similarities between the food business and the flower business,” he said. “Instead of lettuce, onions and tomatoes, I’ve became focused on roses, daisies and peonies. Instead of preparing an entrée, I started making flower arrangements. It’s the same business where the focus is on the customer.”

J.P. now loves the flower business, as he focuses on superior customer service, just as he did in the restaurant business. He also started a seven-day guarantee on all flower purchases. “It’s part of our ethos and part of our marketing efforts,” he explained.

If a customer isn’t happy with the arrangement, purchased within seven days, it’s completely replaced. No questions asked.

“This policy sets me apart from the competition,” J.P. said. “Customers don’t want to get burned. Customers are happy, and my employees are happy. Nobody goes home upset.”

Another philosophy that sets him apart is J.P.’s philanthropic mindset.

“We donate more than $90,000 worth of flowers every year to deserving causes in Palm Beach County,” he noted.

Wellington Florist donates flowers to support local Habitat for Humanity events, Wellington Community Foundation-backed initiatives, special events backed by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, and many others.

“For years, the greater Palm Beach County community has been good to us, and it’s our way of supporting the community,” J.P. said. “We deliver to all parts of Palm Beach County, from Belle Glade to Palm Beach and from Jupiter down to Boca Raton.”

Also key to their success are business relationships with growers.

“We buy directly from farms in Ecuador, Columbia, Israel, France, and as far away as New Zealand. All of our roses are grown in Ecuador,” J.P. said. “We don’t buy from a middleman or a distributor. We buy direct. Each week, four pallets of flowers are delivered to our store.”

As for Melinda’s current role in the business, she doesn’t have a daily presence in the store, but she does help from time to time.

“Mom comes in to help with Christmas decorations, and she travels with me on purchasing trips,” J.P. said.

Looking back over 35 years, Melinda is impressed by how much Wellington has changed with its tremendous growth.

“It’s good for business. Personally, sometimes I don’t love how busy it has gotten, but it is definitely good for business,” she said.

Melinda remains very proud of all the work the family has done establishing its place in the Wellington community.

“It’s a business that everyone knows in Wellington, and I’m thankful that my son decided to go into the business,” Melinda said.

As for J.P. and Melissa’s two daughters — 15-year-old Ella and 13-year-old Brynn — at least for now, they appear to have no interest in following the family petals, er, footsteps, into the flower business, but neither did J.P. when he was in high school. “I’m hoping that they change their minds,” said J.P., now 44.

Wellington Florist is located at 13889 Wellington Trace in Wellington. To learn more, call (561) 333-4441 or visit www.wellingtonflorist.com.

Saddle Up For A Dressage Dance Party To Battle Breast Cancer

Get ready to crank up the amps and paint the town pink on Friday, March 7 at the Challenge of the Americas (COTA). This isn’t just your average equestrian event; it’s a huge family dance party where horses and riders from around the globe groove to the beat, all in the name of kicking breast cancer to the curb. COTA is your backstage pass to a night of rockin’ action with all proceeds benefiting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) through partner Play for P.I.N.K.

This one-of-a-kind extravaganza showcases the Olympic sport of dressage featuring top-tier international competitors from the U.S., Canada and Europe. Riders and their equine partners will dance through intricate patterns, all while the crowd is grooving to a killer soundtrack. It’s like “Dancing with the Stars,” but with more horsepower.

The gates open at 5:30 p.m. at the Global Dressage Festival showgrounds, located at the corner of South Shore Blvd. and Pierson Road in Wellington. Grab some tasty bites and refreshing drinks from the vendors, then enjoy the DJ spinning tunes before the main event kicks off at 6:30 p.m. General admission ticket holders will have great seats in the grandstands to catch the pink-clad show jumpers and their rockstar mounts as they leap and bound, accompanied by their pint-sized pals. It’s an “awwww-inspiring” start to a great evening.

But hold onto your guitars, because the Rockin’ Dressage Derby challenge is when the musical fun really begins. This isn’t just an equestrian dance for two; it’s a stunning display of horse and rider pairs moving in perfect harmony. Plugged in, amped up and ready to rock,
four pas de deux teams will vie to become the rockstars of COTA 2025. But there’s a fabulously fun twist — each team will jam to the first three minutes of the rock music they were given ahead of time but have absolutely no clue what their last minute of music holds. Will it be a wild ride of unexpected rhythms? Who will rise to the challenge and turn the unknown into an unforgettable encore?

Then, Olympic athlete and 2024 Sidelines magazine “Hot Horseman” Marcus Orlob will dance to the music with his Grand Prix horse while honoring those who have survived, are undergoing treatment or have lost their lives to breast cancer.

The grand finale of the evening features the much-anticipated musical Grand Prix Quadrille Team Challenge. Five teams of six horses and their talented riders will dazzle the crowd with intricate choreography and vibrant costumes. It’s a spectacle that will have attendees cheering like they’re at a sold-out stadium concert.

COTA has come a long way since its debut in 2002, when Mary Ross created it to honor her mother’s battle with breast cancer. What started as a cozy luncheon has evolved into an international extravaganza featuring 44 riders and their majestic steeds. Its success is powered by a partnership with the top-rated breast cancer research organization in the U.S. and a format that’s as entertaining as a classic rock anthem.

The mission of the Challenge of the Americas is to #ChallengeBreastCancer through the BCRF and Play for P.I.N.K., a grassroots movement that’s all about raising funds for research through sporting events. The BCRF is on a mission to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing groundbreaking research. It is the largest private funder of breast cancer research and metastatic breast cancer research worldwide.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women in the U.S., and about one in eight women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. It’s a relentless foe that doesn’t discriminate and the leading cause of cancer deaths in many countries. Most have been touched by this disease in some way.

General admission tickets for the Challenge of the Americas are available at the door for just $30, and kids 12 and under get in free.

Want to take your COTA experience to the next level? Snag VIP tickets from www.challengeoftheamericas.com for an unforgettable evening — complete with dinner and dancing under the stars.

So, throw on your pink, grab your crew and head over to the Challenge of the Americas on March 7 for a night filled with equestrian excitement and family fun.

JustWorld Gala Empowers Children And Inspires Change

Belle Herbe Farm in Wellington hosted the 22nd annual JustWorld International Gala on Sunday, Jan. 19, bringing the equestrian community together for an unforgettable night of fundraising for thousands of children worldwide.

Amid dazzling Carnival-themed décor, high-energy performances and exhilarating fundraising bids, the evening remained firmly grounded in JustWorld’s mission: empowering young riders and transforming communities through education, healthcare and nutrition. At the heart of the gala were JustWorld’s four impactful projects — StoryBook Treasures (U.S.), El Patojismo (Guatemala), Asociación Compartir (Honduras) and the People Improvement Organization (Cambodia) — which were brought to life through powerful speeches that emphasized the importance of stepping into the shoes of others.

The generosity of sponsors, donors and participants bolstered the evening’s success. Key sponsors included Caryl Philips, Wendy and Michael Smith, Team Eye Candy, Cherry Knoll Farm, Tara & Mark Rein, the Samuel Sanford Family, JoAnn Palazzo and Mark Alexander, Traverse City Horse Shows, Belle Herbe Farm, Christy’s Bakery, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Buffalo Wild Wings and Laura Ashley Catering Events.

Donor support was further reflected in the live auction, which featured exclusive packages ranging from a luxury Sandals Resorts getaway to a Concours Club driving experience and a French travel package curated by Maria Newman. Silent auction highlights included Ruchi earrings, electric scooters and a Costa Rica vacation.

Olympic dressage rider Ashley Holzer kicked off the evening with an inspiring speech about her experience visiting Pioneer Park Elementary School in Belle Glade last March. In partnership with JustWorld, Rodriguez Equestrian and StoryBook Treasures, more than 30 ambassadors participated.

“These kids were blown away seeing this horse canter around,” Holzer said. “They were mesmerized. Most of them had never seen a horse before, and seeing their eyes light up when they saw this horse was truly an incredible experience to watch.”

She also recounted how the students took home a book, Everything Horses And Ponies, with one child telling her, “I will never forget this.”

JustWorld ambassadors Corinne Sweeney and Tatum Anderson added to the evening’s impact by recapping their transformative trip to El Patojismo with JustWorld last November, and founder Jessica Newman gave a poignant speech reflecting on two decades of JustWorld’s work.

Jessica emphasized the transformative impact of the ambassador program, sharing inspiring stories of equestrians like Reed Kessler, Kira Kerkorian and Mia Marzotto, whose early involvement with JustWorld shaped their careers in humanitarian aid and public service.

“We are so proud of the influence we have had on generations of young equestrians who have become committed JustWorld ambassadors,” Jessica said. “They have followed the lead of all our dedicated professionals to constantly impress us the more we empower them! These individuals not only support our cause but carry the spirit of philanthropy within them, making it a cornerstone of their lives.”

The evening also celebrated honorees whose contributions have been vital to advancing JustWorld’s mission. These included gala co-emcees Steven Wilde, a five-time Olympic commentator whose engaging presence has energized the gala for years, and Hailey Hak, a professional equestrian and JustWorld ambassador who joined Wilde onstage this year.

JustWorld also honored Dr. Evan Lefsky, an education strategist who has volunteered his expertise to JustWorld’s projects in Guatemala and Cambodia, and Sydney Collier, a Paralympic athlete and JustWorld ambassador who combines her equestrian career with volunteer work.

The night’s biggest surprise came when Maria Newman, a devoted supporter and chair of every JustWorld International gala for more than 20 years, was honored for her unwavering dedication to alleviating suffering and bringing comfort to those in need.

A former French actress and singer, Maria has used her talent, charisma and extensive network to drive the success of JustWorld’s fundraising efforts, including securing highly sought-after auction items like the French vacation package. Maria, who volunteers her Belle Herbe Farm for the gala each year, has visited the organization’s projects across the globe, including more than 15 trips to the school in Cambodia.

“Those fortunate enough to know Maria are touched by her warmth, her genuine kindness and her remarkable ability to listen with an open heart,” Wilde said when presenting her award. “She connects with others in a way that makes them feel seen, valued and inspired.”

JustWorld’s impact continues with a robust lineup of events in the coming months. On Friday, Feb. 7, the organization will kick off its Leadership Development Program with Olympian Reed Kessler, who will share her journey from JustWorld ambassador to national security professional. On Sunday, Feb. 9, a book-packing event with StoryBook Treasures will prepare for school visits to Pioneer Park and Pahokee elementary schools on Feb. 10 and Feb. 24.

In March, JustWorld will host an Open House/Fun on the Field networking event for ambassadors of all ages, laying the foundation for international project visits later in the year.

“When I founded JustWorld, my vision was clear: I wanted involvement in charity work to become part of each ambassador’s identity and their soul — not just a charity they think of once a year,” Jessica Newman said in her gala speech. “I wanted them to continue doing what they love — riding and competing — but also giving back to those less fortunate. The beauty of JustWorld is they can do it with people who share that same passion.”

Established in 2003, JustWorld International was created to connect equestrians with a direct way to help fracture the cycle of poverty through education, healthcare, nutrition and leadership programs benefiting children around the world. Visit www.justworldinternational.org to learn more about the Wellington-based nonprofit.

The State Of Our Community: Resilient, Connected And Thriving In 2025

2024 brought many great achievements for the Village of Wellington, with many more great things in the works here in 2025. This has led to Wellington continuing to be a safe, resilient and inclusive community with an unmatched quality of life.

The state of our community is strong. Wellington is a sustainable, connected and resilient village, guided by our unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability and communication. While economic forecasting remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Wellington’s foundation of resilience continues to shine through.

In 2024, property values in Wellington increased by 9 percent, surpassing $12.54 billion and breaking the $12 billion mark for the first time in village history. This remarkable milestone reflects not only our community’s economic vitality but also our steadfast dedication to exemplary financial stewardship. It is this stewardship that enables us to provide world-class, innovative services and amenities, making Wellington one of the most desirable places to live, work and enjoy life.

While we have a proud history of delivering best-in-class services, we are looking to the future with a focus on sustainable community design that enhances and protects our natural environment. One significant step forward is the expansion of the Wellington Environmental Preserve at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Everglades Habitat, a project that underscores our commitment to ecological conservation and sustainability.

In 2024, our community became more connected thanks to strategic investments in state-of-the-art infrastructure. From maintaining roads, utilities and facilities to launching transformative projects, Wellington continues to set the standard for municipal innovation. Among our key initiatives is the ongoing improvement of our water and wastewater treatment facilities. Projects like the Meter Replacement and Membrane Expansion programs ensure the reliable delivery of superior-quality drinking water and environmentally safe wastewater services for our utility customers.

We’ve also prioritized connecting people to places. Through our partnership with Freebee, we provided more than 5,637 rides to Wellington seniors, and with more than 300 miles of shared-use paths, we are now one of the most connected communities in the county. These amenities not only enhance mobility but also add tremendous value for our residents, businesses and visitors.

Beyond physical connections, we’ve strengthened our social and civic bonds. Public engagement remains the cornerstone of our success. In 2024, the Wellington Village Council held 22 regularly scheduled meetings and 23 work sessions, all open to the public. We engaged residents through more than 1.4 million social media impressions, dozens of public meetings and countless in-person events. Our world-class team also completed more than 20,000 service requests via the GoWellington app and other platforms. As we look ahead, we are excited to launch a new podcast that will explore the diverse stories and experiences that make Wellington a thriving hometown.

Wellington’s success is built on the spirit of volunteerism. Hundreds of volunteers dedicate their time to community clean-ups, parks and recreation programs, and neighborhood service projects. They also play an essential role in delivering our popular events and programs. Their contributions help make Wellington a global community of choice, where people come together to create meaningful connections.

Perhaps the most powerful testament to our community’s strength is the satisfaction of our residents. Results from the most recent National Community Survey highlight that approximately 9 in 10 residents gave positive ratings to Wellington’s overall image, reputation and quality of life. Similarly, 9 in 10 would recommend living in Wellington and plan to remain here for at least the next five years. These ratings — higher than both national and peer community benchmarks — reaffirm that Wellington is a safe, resilient and inclusive community with an unmatched quality of life.

As we reflect on these achievements, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve you. It is our distinct honor to work alongside you in building an even brighter future for Wellington. Together, we will continue to make our village a place where everyone can thrive.

Wellington Gearing Up For The 2025 Polo Season
All Six USPA 10-Goalers Will Play At The National Polo Center During The Prestigious Gauntlet Series

The 2025 high-goal polo season is now underway at the National Polo Center in Wellington. The season opened on Sunday, Dec. 29 with the George Miller Memorial, and the New Year will kick off with the Heritage Cup final set for Sunday, Jan. 5.

The 2025 NPC winter season schedule is highlighted by the Gauntlet of Polo series, the NPC 16-Goal Championship, the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship and the National President’s Cup.

Tickets for general admission and Sunday brunch are available for purchase online at www.nationalpolocenter.com. Select tournaments will be livestreamed on United States Polo Association (USPA) digital channels. For more information, visit www.uspolo.org.

The third edition of the NPC 16-Goal Championship will include qualifiers played across multiple clubs, with the championship hosted by NPC. Participating clubs include the Port Mayaca Polo Club in Okeechobee, as well as the Wellington Polo Tour (WPT) led by Patagones Polo Club in Wellington and a group of private fields falling under the WPT umbrella.

The NPC 16-Goal Championship is comprised of four USPA tournaments, including the Joe Barry Memorial (Jan. 3-26), the Ylvisaker Cup (Jan. 23 – Feb. 16), the Iglehart Cup (Feb. 17 – March 16) and the Outback Cup (March 18 – April 6). Each tournament will serve as a qualifier, and teams will accumulate points based on their standing in the four designated qualifiers to be eligible for the NPC 16-Goal Championship.

The season will be highlighted by the prestigious, three-part Gauntlet of Polo series, presented by TruBar. The Gauntlet of Polo showcases the three most coveted American tournaments: the C.V. Whitney Cup (Feb. 7-23), the USPA Gold Cup (Feb. 24 – March 23) and the U.S. Open Polo Championship (March 24 – April 20).

This year’s Gauntlet tournaments will feature all six USPA 10 goalers — Adolfo Cambiaso, Poroto Cambiaso, Bartolome Castagnola, Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola, Tomas Panelo and Hilario Ulloa — ensuring unparalleled skill and competition. Not only do the tournaments offer the richest prizes in the sport, but any team that consecutively sweeps all three tournaments will earn their place in history as the Gauntlet Champion.

The prize money distribution for the 2025 season will follow last year’s format, with $50,000 awarded to each of the winning teams of the C.V. Whitney Cup and the USPA Gold Cup, and $100,000 presented to the winner of the U.S. Open Polo Championship.

The 11 teams already committed to the Gauntlet series include BTA with Ignacio “Nachi” Viana, Kelly Beal, Steve Krueger and Tomas Panelo; Brookshire with Camilo “Jeta” Castagnola, Carlos “Toly” Ulloa, Scott Wood and Segundo Saravi; Catamount with Jesse Bray, Poroto Cambiaso, Rufino Merlos and Scott Devon; Clearwater with Chip Campbell, Edward “Camp” Campbell, Geronimo Obregon, Joaquin Panelo, Paco de Narvaez Jr. and Raul “Gringo” Colombres; Coca-Cola with Gillian Johnston, Julian de Lusarreta, Lorenzo Chavanne and Pablo “Polito” Pieres; Global Port with Bartolome Castagnola, Beltran Laulhe, Lucas Diaz Alberdi and Michael Romero; La Fe with Francisco Elizalde, Kristos “Keko” Magrini, Louis Devaleix and Roberto Bilbao; Park Place with Andrey Borodin, Hilario Ulloa, Mariano “Peke” Gonzalez Jr. and Rufino Laulhe; Pilot with Cody Ellis, Curtis Pilot, Facundo Pieres and Matias Torres Zavaleta; Tamera with Adolfo Cambiaso, Alejandro Poma and Diego Cavanagh; and the Dutta Corp with Ignacio “Inaki” Laprida, Nicolas Diaz Alberdi, Timmy Dutta and Tomas Garcia del Rio.

In addition, the NPC season will showcase USPA members from clubs around the country competing at the low-goal level. The second edition of the National President’s Cup, at NPC in Wellington and under the new format, will bring together some of the most talented 8-goal teams in the nation. The tournament will consist of up to 14 qualifying tournaments played from June 2024 through April 2025, with the winning teams advancing to the National President’s Cup at NPC in April.

Regional President’s Cup qualifying tournaments will be awarded to one member club in each of the 11 USPA circuits. The Florida Circuit, host of the National President’s Cup, will be the only exception, with four qualifying events awarded. The winner of each qualifier will be invited to the National President’s Cup competition, and teams advancing from a club outside the Florida Circuit will receive a $10,000 travel stipend.

Also featured at NPC this season will be the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship, which will be hosted and managed by the Port Mayaca Polo Club with the final, showcasing the best of women’s polo, on Sunday, Feb. 9 at NPC.

NPC looks forward to welcoming spectators every Sunday afternoon through April 27 to enjoy the prestige and thrill of spectating on U.S. Polo Assn. Field One.

Polo fans can embrace the grandeur of the “sport of kings” by becoming a member of the Polo Club at NPC, which offers a variety of membership opportunities, including social, junior and equestrian packages. Membership benefits include access to restaurants and social facilities, including a private resort-style pool, spa, fitness center and tennis courts.

Over the past year, NPC’s tennis program has expanded significantly with the addition of renowned tennis instructor Scott Williams. The 2025 tennis season promises to introduce more competitive teams, tournaments and clinics for NPC members. Membership also includes access to exclusive events held throughout the week, such as the popular Chef Experience Wine Dinners and a dynamic speaker series with a range of distinguished guests, along with discounts on season box or tailgate purchases.

Additionally, the Wellington venue serves as a vibrant community hub, boasting more than 7,000 square feet of versatile entertainment space, with multiple restaurants and areas for public or private events. NPC can host a range of activities, including fundraisers for local charities, weddings, corporate gatherings, indoor candlelight and outdoor concerts. The possibilities are endless with an expansive outdoor oasis suited to host anything from other sporting events to graduations on one of NPC’s fields.

Regardless of group size, NPC provides many spaces perfectly suited to meet each event’s requirements. The 7th Chukker, located in the heart of the stadium, offers a beautiful patio overlooking U.S. Polo Assn. Field One, providing an ideal setting to enjoy the match. The space can accommodate 50 seated guests or 100 attendees for cocktail-style events. Meanwhile, the open and airy poolside Mallet Grille, known for its iconic polo mallet chandelier, offers members an exclusive dining experience. Ideal for hosting small to medium-scale events, the restaurant provides a picturesque view of the field. For a more casual option, the Pavilion Café, open to the public and frequented by the polo community, offers a selection of salads and handhelds, perfect for a weekday lunch stop.

Overall, NPC stands out as a world-class venue, with picturesque facilities, diverse dining options and a vibrant calendar of events.

The National Polo Center is located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington. Get your tickets or plan your next event by visiting www.nationalpolocenter.com.

 

The ‘Sport Of Kings’ And Families
The Cambiasos Are Continuing The Time-Honored Tradition Of Passing Down The Sport Of Polo

By Mike May

Polo is one of the most tradition-rich sports in the world. In fact, there are very few sports where the legacy of playing the sport is intentionally handed down from one generation of a family to the next. There are many examples of polo families where the sport is played at a high level by more than one family member, including Argentina’s Cambiaso family, which includes two of the current best players in the world.

While based in Argentina, the Cambiasos usually spend the winter season here in Wellington. The patriarch of the family is 10-goaler Adolfo Cambiaso, 49. He’s a brilliant, world-class polo player and has been for many years — and many of his best days on the polo field with a mallet in his right hand are still in his future.

Two of his children — daughter Mia Cambiaso and son Adolfo “Poroto” Cambiaso — are also accomplished polo-playing professionals. All three will be playing on the fields in Wellington during the current winter polo season. And even if you’re not at a game, you easily might see one of them shopping in the aisles at Publix over the next few months.

Considered by many the top polo player in the world today, Adolfo’s list of championship wins is impressive, to say the least. Those polo championships include many Argentine Opens, a number of U.S. Open Polo Championships, USPA Gold Cups, and the Queen’s Cup (U.K.).

Adolfo’s competitive career started before he was a teenager. At age 12, he earned his one-goal handicap. Since then, his career has soared, and he continues to play the sport at a world-class level. At the age of 21, Adolfo established his own polo club called La Dolfina, which then proceeded to win three straight Argentine Opens.

In the minds of many Argentinian sports fans, Adolfo is as highly regarded as a polo player as other Argentinian sports heroes, such as World Cup soccer champions Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, four-time major tennis champ Guillermo Vilas, rugby union great Hugo Porta and five-time Formula 1 Grand Prix World Championship driver Juan Manuel Fangio. Any picture of Argentina’s greatest sporting champions would be incomplete without Adolfo Cambiaso.

In addition to being a world-class player, Adolfo is getting more involved in horse breeding and cloning.

As for Poroto, 19, he has also achieved similar praise as one of polo’s rising greats, and often can be found ahead of his father in current rankings. Poroto has already risen to the rarefied realm of being one of polo’s global superstars and a living legend in his own right. Poroto’s major polo victories include the 2020 English Gold Cup, the 2021 U.S. Open Polo Championship and the 129th Argentine Open. At that specific Argentine Open, Poroto became the youngest 10-goaler, which broke the existing record established years before by his father.

Looking back, Poroto was perhaps destined to become a successful and accomplished polo player since he was born during the 2005 Argentine Open. During a qualifying match in that Argentine Open, Adolfo’s wife María Vázquez went into labor. So, as you would expect, Adolfo left the field and headed to the hospital to be there for Poroto’s birth. For Poroto, that’s called being “born into polo.”

When Poroto began playing, his father was also his teammate. Clearly, Poroto learned how to play the sport from the best in the business. In 2023, Poroto finally won his first major title without his father on the same team. It was the USPA Gold Cup in Wellington.

Many polo pundits now agree that both Adolfo and Poroto share that “killer instinct,” which is the foundation for their joint drive to win.

One of the most entertaining moments in their competitive careers occurred in 2024 in Wellington when Adolfo’s team (Valiente) met Poroto’s team (La Dolfina), facing one another in the final of all three Gauntlet of Polo events: the C.V. Whitney Cup, the USPA Gold Cup and the U.S. Open Polo Championship. This was the first time in history that the same two teams met in the final of all three events in the same year. In all three finales, Adolfo was ranked the No. 1 player in the world, while Poroto was ranked as the world’s No. 2 player.

Well, Adolfo’s team won the C.V. Whitney Cup. Then, Poroto’s responded by taking the USPA Gold Cup. That left the U.S. Open as the proverbial rubber game of the series. Poroto and his teammates were a little sharper in the U.S. Open final, and La Dolina prevailed, 10-7.

Polo broadcaster Kenny Rice said that having a father-son dual in the Gauntlet of Polo was historic.

“The Cambiasos are one-two in the world. That’s amazing,” Rice said. “There has never been in any sport a father-son be the absolute best in the world, one-two.”

Adolfo’s feelings for his son are laced with love and respect, as he truly relished the chance to play against his very talented son.

“As a father, it’s not easy playing against your son. He knows how to manage his game,” Adolfo said. “I think Poroto is growing a lot as a player and as a person.”

Poroto had similar sentiments about his dad. “It is always very difficult to play against me and also for him, it is very difficult to play against a son,” Poroto added.

As for older sister Mia Cambiaso, she’s climbing up the polo ladder, too. At age 14, she had a two-goal handicap and was a teammate of her father in the Pilará Mix Cup. As a member of Hawaii Polo Life, she helped lead the team to winning the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship in 2022.

Meanwhile, the youngest Cambiaso child, Myla, also plays the sport. Clearly, the tradition of playing polo at a high level is alive and well in the Cambiaso family — and it will continue to be for years to come.

 

Faces of Polo 2025
Happy New Year! The dawn of 2025 brings the start of a new polo season here in Wellington, which brings world-class athletes from around the globe to compete in “the sport of kings.” Along with the sporting action — horse and rider pairs flying down perfectly manicured fields, all eyes on the goal — is a whole other set of entertainment, whether it is people watching, high fashion, tailgating, a delectable brunch, the halftime divot stomp and more. The National Polo Center-Wellington, owned since 2022 by the United States Polo Association, attracts the world’s top talent to play in its annual winter high-goal season, which nowadays includes tournament partnerships with a number of other polo clubs in area. Once again, NPC is the place to see great high-goal action, including featured matches every Sunday on U.S. Polo Assn. Field One. As we do each January, Wellington The Magazine is highlighting just a small handful of the amazing athletes you will see vying for top polo accolades this season. Turn the page and meet the Faces of Polo 2025.

Adolfo Cambiaso
A longtime legend in the sport, Argentine Adolfo Cambiaso is a name synonymous with polo itself. Cambiaso earned the distinguished 10-goal handicap status when he was just 19 years old, and in 2000, he founded La Dolfina, one of the most successful Argentine teams in history. Now age 49, the veteran player has accumulated one of the most successful careers in the sport with multiple victories in the Argentine Triple Crown, as well as historical success in England and the United States. Throughout his time competing in America, Cambiaso has acquired nine C.V. Whitney Cup victories, 15 USPA Gold Cup titles and nine U.S. Open Polo Championship trophies, including six Most Valuable Player awards. A seasoned professional and industry titan, Cambiaso has increasingly focused on his legacy — his children — competing alongside his son, Adolfo “Poroto” Cambiaso Jr., in the Gauntlet of Polo in 2021 and 2022. In a historic turn, Cambiaso Sr. faced off against his son in each Gauntlet of Polo final in 2024, with the veteran leading Valiente to victory in the C.V. Whitney Cup.

Gillian Johnston
Gillian Johnston is a cornerstone of American polo and an inspiration for women in the sport. She made history in 2002 when she won the prestigious U.S. Open Polo Championship with Coca-Cola. Having her name engraved on the U.S. Open trophy marked a significant milestone, as very few women have had the privilege of lifting the coveted cup. Known for her exceptional horsemanship, Johnston is also renowned for breeding top-quality polo ponies. A fixture in the sport for many years, Johnston is not only one of the few women to regularly compete in the Florida high-goal season but is also one of the best-mounted players in the game.

Hilario Ulloa
Born in Argentina, Hilario Ulloa was introduced to polo at an early age, thanks to his father, renowned trainer Carlos “Polito” Ulloa. Achieving the coveted 10-goal rating in 2017, Ulloa has consistently remained one of the world’s top players, competing at elite tournaments in the United States, England and Argentina. A four-time winner of the U.S. Open Polo Championship and the C.V. Whitney Cup, Ulloa, and the Park Place organization, have been a dominant force during the winter season at the National Polo Center in recent years. In 2024, Ulloa received the prestigious National Polo Center’s High-Goal Horse of the Year Award for his exceptional mare, Mega Big Bay, further underscoring his enduring success in the sport.

Hope Arellano
American polo prodigy Hope Arellano comes from a family deeply rooted in the sport. She began playing at an early age, and by age 12, had already won her first 12-goal tournament alongside her two brothers and Hall-of-Fame father Julio Arellano. Her rapid rise through the ranks was nothing short of remarkable. At just 14, Arellano won the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship. In 2022, she made history as the first woman to represent the U.S. in the prestigious XII FIP World Polo Championship. Now, at age 21, Arellano has earned an impressive array of titles both in the U.S. and internationally. In December 2023, she became the first American to win the Women’s Argentine Open and also became the youngest American to achieve a 10-goal USPA women’s handicap. In 2024, she was selected as the sole female to represent Team USA in the Paris Games Polo Challenge in France. Arellano’s talent and trailblazing achievements make her one of the most compelling players in the sport.

Jesse Bray
Jesse Bray has long been an established presence in West Coast polo. Competing regularly at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in California, Bray earned one of his first major titles in 2021, winning the Silver Cup. He has since made a name for himself on both the U.S. and international circuits, competing among polo’s elite. In 2023, Bray’s standout performances earned him Most Valuable Player in the Iglehart Cup, as well as receiving the Best Playing Pony award. Last season, Bray’s career reached new heights when he was selected as a substitute for the prestigious Valiente team, where he joined forces with polo legend Adolfo Cambiaso to claim the 2024 C.V. Whitney Cup. After recently wrapping up a successful season in Argentina, Bray now looks to build on his momentum as he heads into the upcoming Florida season.

Nico Escobar
Wellington local Nico Escobar, a rising star, is making waves in the polo world. Proudly representing his country, Escobar has gained valuable international experience, competing in the 2023 Westchester Cup against England and earning silver in the most recent FIP World Polo Championship. He was also part of the American team that claimed victory in the 2024 Paris Games Polo Challenge against France. At just 24, Escobar has proven himself a dominant force in national tournament competition across the United States, especially in Florida and California, with wins in the USPA Gold Cup and Silver Cup. Escobar shined during the 2024 season, most notably in the NPC 16-Goal Championship, sweeping the competition to secure the title.

Mariano ‘Peke’ Gonzalez Jr.
25-year-old Mariano “Peke” Gonzalez Jr. has had a deep passion for horses since childhood, sparking his love for polo. Growing up, he could always be found around the barn, eager to be involved in every aspect of the sport. In 2021, Gonzalez reached a major milestone, winning his first U.S. Open Polo Championship alongside and under the mentorship of polo legend Adolfo Cambiaso. In 2023, Gonzalez had a standout year, capturing the 16-Goal Championship and solidifying his success with victories in the Joe Barry Memorial, Ylvisaker Cup and Iglehart Cup. That same year, Gonzalez also won the Pacific Coast Open and Most Valuable Player in California, and received season honors, including Best High-Goal String. Gonzalez will be looking to build on his successes in the upcoming season, with his eyes set on adding more achievements to his standout résumé.

Adolfo ‘Poroto’ Cambiaso Jr.
19-year-old Adolfo “Poroto” Cambiaso Jr., the son of polo icon Adolfo Cambiaso, is carving out a legacy that mirrors his legendary father. Cambiaso Jr. made his American high-goal debut in 2021, joining forces with his father in the Gauntlet of Polo and helping Scone secure both the USPA Gold Cup and the U.S. Open Polo Championship. By 2022, he added the Pacific Coast Open to his list of victories, and achieved an Argentine double the same year, winning both the Hurlingham Open and the Argentine Open with La Dolfina. In 2024, he returned for his fourth Gauntlet of Polo season, facing off against his father on three separate occasions. Undeterred by the rivalry, Cambiaso Jr. led his teams to back-to-back victories, claiming his third USPA Gold Cup and his second U.S. Open Polo Championship. A generational talent, Cambiaso Jr. is destined to shape the future of polo.

Tomas Panelo
A new 10-goaler has arrived! At 24, Tomas Panelo’s polo career has been on the rise since 2017, when he helped Argentina win the XI FIP World Polo Championship. In 2021, he added the Queen’s Cup in England to his achievements, and in 2023, he captured his first major U.S. title, the USPA Gold Cup. In 2024, during his second winter season at the National Polo Center in Wellington, he competed alongside Adolfo “Poroto” Cambiaso Jr. with La Dolfina. Panelo managed to reach all three finals in the Gauntlet of Polo, playing a key role in his team’s victories in both the USPA Gold Cup and U.S. Open Polo Championship. Awarded Most Valuable Player honors for his performance in the Gold Cup final, he scored more than half of the winning team’s goals. In May, his exceptional play throughout the season earned him a promotion to the coveted 10-goal handicap.

Facundo Pieres
Facundo Pieres is the epitome of a modern professional polo player. Hailing from a polo-playing family and descended from the legendary Gonzalo Pieres, he was immersed in the sport from a young age in Argentina, sharing the field with his brothers Gonzalo “Gonzalito” and Nicolas “Nico” Pieres, as well as his cousin Pablo “Polito” Pieres. He has built an exceptional career, achieving remarkable success in Argentina, England and the U.S. Among his many accomplishments is his 2019 Gauntlet of Polo sweep, where he led Pilot to victory in the inaugural year of the prestigious series — an achievement that remains unmatched.

 

 

 

2025 Polo Hall Of Fame Inductees Museum Of Polo’s 36th Annual Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony And Awards Dinner Set For Feb. 14

By Y.A. Teitelbaum

The Board of Directors of the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame recently announced the 2025 inductees into the museum’s Polo Hall of Fame. The honorees are Joe Henderson, Jimmy Bachman, Jorie Butler Kent, Susan Stovall, and legendary horses Flash and Beatrice.

The 36th annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Awards Dinner is one of the premier social events of the winter polo season in Florida and is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 14, at 6:30 p.m. at the Museum of Polo (9011 Lake Worth Road).

Joe Henderson, who reached 8 goals outdoors and 10 goals in the arena, has won numerous major high-goal tournaments on grass, including the C.V. Whitney Cup in 1987 as well as the America Cup twice and the North American Cup four times. He also dominated the 1987 Pacific Coast Open, winning the title while sweeping the MVP and BPP. In 1993, Henderson and Fish Creek reached the U.S. Open final, losing 11-10 to Gehache, while he was selected as the MVP. Henderson was also a dynamic arena player, winning numerous titles on his way to a 10-goal handicap while earning Arena Player of the Year in 1988 and 1992, and recognized as Arena Player of the Centennial Era in 1990.

Posthumous Hall of Fame inductee Jimmy Bachman had considerable success at all levels, winning the 20-goal Monty Waterbury Cup in 1983 and reaching the finals of both the 26-goal Sunshine League in 1985 and the 20-goal East Coast Open. He captured numerous medium-goal tournaments as well, including the Copper Cup (1987 and 1988), Bronze Trophy (1988 and 1989), the 1990 Heritage Cup and the 1991 Chairman’s Cup. But he made his name dominating low-goal polo, especially at Gulfstream in the 1980s. Bachman reached 7 goals in 1986 and played at that handicap until his untimely death in 1991.

Iglehart Award recipient Jorie Butler Kent is an iconic figure in U.S. polo, born into the sport. Her father, Paul Butler, is synonymous with Oak Brook Polo, and so is his daughter, who managed the club from 1967 to 1979, a first for a woman. Butler Kent continued her interest in polo and, along with Sue Sally Hale and several others, became the first women to receive handicaps from the USPA in 1972. She also organized the USPA Polo Pony Championship and helped to establish the rules and registry. She continued to be a pioneer in the sport when she secured the first international corporate sponsorship, Rolex. Additionally, Butler Kent was integral to the early successes of many clubs, including Palm Beach Polo, Greenwich and Windsor Polo in Vero Beach, as well as the Museum of Polo.

The posthumous Iglehart Award honoree and “force of nature” Susan Stovall left an indelible mark on the world of polo, both as a pioneer for women’s polo and on the sport in general. Stovall did it all, from riding early morning sets to competing on the field, to organizing tournaments, to entertaining royalty and celebrities at charity polo events. She was a respected and beloved manager of Eldorado for 26 years, while also continuing to play and continuing to help run her family’s polo operation, the White Swan Polo Club in Washington. Under her watch, Eldorado grew to become the largest polo club on the West Coast with dozens of teams regularly competing thanks to her no-nonsense approach, organizing skills, enthusiasm and genuine love for people.

The Horses to Remember honoree of the early pre-Hartman era is Beatrice, who was a warrior on and off the polo field. The little dark bay mare excelled in three international series for the U.S., ridden by two Hall of Famers, Dev Milburn (1924 Westchester Cup) and Winston Guest (1928 Cup of the Americas, 1930 Westchester Cup). She also played in the 1921 Westchester Cup for the British team. Beatrice was also a real war hero. At the age of 16, she served as an artillery horse in the British Army, and was awarded a gold medal, which she wore pinned on her saddle pad while playing for the U.S. international team.

The phenomenal chestnut thoroughbred gelding Flash, whose actual name was Rockey Kid, will be recognized as Horses to Remember for the post-Hartman era. In the 1970s, Flash helped several top players achieve tremendous victories. During the successful run of high-goal tournaments in Chicago in 1973, John Oxley purchased Flash, greatly helping his players. Flash earned three Best Playing Pony awards played by Billy Linfoot, Roy Barry and Corky Linfoot all in the same year. Flash also competed in the Coronation Cups and Queens Cup in England. Among her many highlights were being named Horse of the Year for April 1976 to April 1977 and being featured on the cover of Polo Magazine.

The black-tie Hall of Fame Awards Dinner is the most important annual fundraising event for the museum, an independently run not-for-profit organization.

To make your reservations for the Feb. 14 event, contact Brenda Lynn at (561) 969-3210 or (561) 969-7015, or e-mail blynn@polomuseum.org. Learn more about the museum at www.polomuseum.org.

Divertimentos & Dressage Returns Feb. 20 
Brooke USA Signature Event Features Dressage Musical Freestyle Performance With The Palm Beach Symphony

Brooke USA recently announced its third annual Divertimentos & Dressage, a one-of-a-kind showcase taking place in the winter equestrian capital of the world. This year’s event will be held Thursday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 9 p.m., at the Jim Brandon Equestrian Center, a move in date and venue that allows the charity to reach new supporters and friends.

Presented by Lugano Diamonds, the evening offers an exquisite blend of live symphonic music and equestrian artistry. The Palm Beach Symphony, under the direction of guest conductor Kyle Elgarten, will deliver an inspiring performance featuring premier classical musicians. Their melodies will accompany a stunning choreographed dressage showcase, featuring Grand Prix riders and their remarkable horses, curated by Collier Wimmer of Three Wishes Freestyle.

The evening will feature awe-inspiring performances by some of the most celebrated dressage riders, including Brooke USA Ambassador JJ Tate, Todd Flettrich, Allison Kavey and Sahar Daniel Hirosh. Additional riders will be announced soon, with all performing to the works of iconic classical composers.

Divertimentos & Dressage was originally conceptualized by Sally Frick, a Brooke USA board member, amateur equestrian and professional flutist. Since its 2023 arrival in the Wellington area, the event has become a signature highlight of the winter circuit, where live music and equestrian sport come together in a dazzling display of artistry and grace.

“We are thrilled to see this event flourish,” Frick said. “It’s not just a breathtaking experience — it’s an opportunity to support Brooke USA’s mission of improving the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules worldwide. This cause resonates deeply with our equestrian community, and I’m proud to see it grow and inspire.”

Brooke USA CEO Emily Dulin echoed these sentiments.

“As we celebrate Brooke USA’s 10th anniversary, Divertimentos & Dressage will launch a year of festivities in spectacular fashion,” she said. “This event beautifully unites equestrian art, live music and philanthropy. We’re excited to welcome residents, seasonal visitors, young equestrians and music enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening in support of a cause that touches lives around the globe.”

The evening begins with a VIP cocktail reception, sponsored by Cherry Knoll Farm, offering gourmet hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. The main performance starts at 7 p.m., showcasing the harmonious collaboration between horses, riders and the symphony. Following the performance, guests can enjoy cookies and coffee, sponsored by the Max Kagan Foundation. Additional features include a vendor village, silent auction and travel auction.

General admission tickets are $75 per person and include the performance and access to the vendor village, auctions and food stations. VIP individual tickets are $250 and include the cocktail reception with open bar and hors d’oeuvres.

Also available are a Prix St. Georges Table for Four at $1,500; a Grand Prix Table for Eight at $3,000; and a Podium Level Table for Eight at $5,000 (this includes two bottles of wine and specialty appetizers).

Don’t miss this magical evening, where music, horses and compassion come together to support the welfare of working equines and the communities that rely on them.

To secure tickets, explore sponsorship opportunities or learn more, visit www.brookeusa.org/events.