International Gay Polo Tournament To Support The Elton John AIDS Foundation

The players and spectators who come out for the 2024 Lexus International Gay Polo Tournament, presented by Douglas Elliman Real Estate, set for April 4-6, will join the Gay Polo League (GPL) in supporting the Elton John AIDS Foundation and its mission to be a powerful force in ending the AIDS epidemic.

Every year since 2016, GPL has chosen an LGBTQ+ charity to benefit from its Wellington tournament, raising awareness of the isolation and exclusion that has hurt gay people of every age. This year, GPL will harness the power of community and sport to raise crucial funds and awareness for the foundation’s lifesaving efforts.

Last year, the foundation launched the Rocket Fund to turbocharge its innovative work, targeting those most at risk of HIV/AIDS, including the LGBTQ+ community. Through their partnership, the GPL further solidifies its commitment to fostering an environment of inclusivity, while contributing toward a cause that makes a positive impact in the lives of millions of people.

GPL founder Chip McKenney is passionate about the partnership and the support the tournament will bring.

“The Elton John AIDS Foundation is one the foremost independent AIDS charities in the world,” he said. “We share their belief that AIDS can be beaten and that everyone must get compassionate support and care to stay healthy and safe, and live with dignity.”

A portion of the funds from tournament ticket sales and proceeds from the event’s signature GPL Polotini Wigstock party will benefit the foundation and contribute to its work to end stigma, prevent HIV infections, provide treatment and services, and motivate governments around the world to end AIDS.

The wildly popular GPL Polotini Wigstock party takes place on Friday, April 5, and features cocktails, light bites, a themed wig contest and fabulous entertainment that will captivate audiences while generating funds for the foundation.

McKenney noted the impact that the foundation has already had in the U.S. to build the health workforce, provide stigma-fee testing and compassionate care, and make it easier and more affordable for people to get HIV prevention and testing products.

“The Elton John AIDS Foundation is at the cutting edge of overcoming barriers to care and saving lives,” McKenney said. “We are proud to support their innovative and compassionate work that will impact people and communities across the world and right here in the United States.”

Anne Aslett, chief executive officer of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, is pleased to be chosen by the GPL.

“The Elton John AIDS Foundation proudly stands as the charitable beneficiary of the Gay Polo League in 2024,” she said. “Our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community extends beyond the polo fields, throughout the U.S. south and around the world. From working tirelessly to challenge discriminatory laws, to championing equitable standards of HIV care, we are guided by our fundamental belief that everyone deserves a life free from judgment, no matter who they are or whom they love.”

Learn more about GPL’s partner the Elton John AIDS Foundation at www.eltonjohnaidsfoundation.org.