A Timeless Tradition
Community Events Brings Wellington Together During The Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and so are the many celebratory activities we wait for all year through. However, these time-cherished holiday events are not just an opportunity for fun, they are also a vital way to strengthen the bonds that make Wellington such a special place to live.

As we enter the busy holiday season, we are reminded of the importance of tradition — traditions that bring us together and help us grow stronger as a community. In Wellington, one of our most cherished traditions is the act of giving back. This December, the village continues to focus on the connections that make us a resilient and compassionate community. From charitable initiatives to joyful celebrations, there are countless ways we come together to support one another and share in the holiday spirit.

Hometown Holiday Toy Drive — Throughout the year, the village team works tirelessly to connect residents with essential services and resources. But it’s during the holiday season that we see the true power of our community’s generosity.

This month, the Community Services Department is hosting the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive, which collects new toys for local children who may otherwise go without a gift this holiday season. In partnership with local nonprofits and community partners, this initiative is a wonderful example of how Wellington works together to ensure that every child can experience the magic of the holidays.

The toy drive is just one of the many charitable efforts that bring us together each year. Last month, the Hometown Holiday Food Drive saw remarkable participation, as residents, schools and local organizations collected food to stock the pantries of families in need. Thanks to this collective effort, hundreds of families enjoyed a festive Thanksgiving meal.

Holiday Events: Celebrating Togetherness — While giving back is at the heart of our December activities, we also embrace the opportunity to celebrate our diverse community with a variety of events that bring joy and unity.

Holiday Cultural Celebration: Wellington’s fourth annual Holiday Cultural Celebration on Thursday, Dec. 5, promises to be a night filled with holiday cheer and cultural pride. From 6 to 9 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater, local schools, churches, temples and community organizations will showcase the rich traditions of Hanukkah, Three Kings Day, Kwanzaa and Christmas. The event will kick off with lively performances from the Panther Run Elementary School band, followed by the Palm Beach Central High School drumline, and will culminate in the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Families can enjoy free cocoa, sponsored by the Crowned Pearls of Wellington, and engage in fun activities like face painting, children’s crafts and more. Santa, the Grinch and other beloved holiday characters will be available for photos from 7 to 9 p.m., making this a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. This year, the Holiday Cultural Celebration will also be held in tandem with the Thursday Night Lakeside Market and Food Truck event, giving attendees the chance to shop, eat and enjoy a festive atmosphere all in one place.

Wellington Winterfest: The next night, on Friday, Dec. 6, the Wellington Chamber of Commerce will host Winterfest, a vibrant holiday celebration co-sponsored by the village. From 6 to 10 p.m. at the Wellington Amphitheater, attendees will be treated to live performances, including a special show by Vanilla Ice, dance performances and family-friendly activities. Winterfest will feature exhibitors, retail and holiday shopping, and food vendors, creating a festive marketplace atmosphere. For the kids, Blizzard Beach will offer a winter wonderland of activities, while adults can relax in a special lounge area. Free parking and shuttle services will be available to ensure a stress-free experience.

Wellington Boat Parade: One of the most popular traditions of the season, the Wellington Boat Parade, will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 6:30 p.m. Residents and visitors can gather at the Wellington Community Center to watch the dazzling display of festively decorated boats as they cruise along Lake Wellington. The parade will last for one hour, and food trucks and vendors will be available at the Lakeside Market from 5 to 9 p.m. to add to the excitement.

40th Annual Holiday Parade: On Sunday, Dec. 8, the Central Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce will host the 40th annual Wellington Holiday Parade, with this year’s theme “Rockin’ in the Holidays.” From 1:30 to 5 p.m., spectators can enjoy festive floats, marching bands and performances along Forest Hill Blvd. This cherished tradition draws thousands of residents to watch the parade, and with the participation of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and Palm Beach County Fire-Rescue, safety is ensured for all involved.

Strengthening Our Community — These events are not just an opportunity for fun, they are also a vital way to strengthen the bonds that make Wellington such a special place to live. They allow us to connect with neighbors, build a sense of belonging and create memories that last a lifetime. Beyond the festivities, these gatherings also benefit our community in many ways. They promote local businesses, support charitable causes, and provide a platform for diverse cultures and traditions to be celebrated.

As we reflect on the spirit of giving, it’s important to remember that Wellington’s resilience is built on the collective efforts of residents, volunteers, businesses and organizations. Whether you are donating to a cause, volunteering your time or simply offering a kind word to a neighbor, you are contributing to the strength and vibrancy of this remarkable community.

A Season of Giving — In this season of generosity, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the connections you have with your neighbors, your community and your village. Together, we can continue to shape Wellington into a place where everyone feels valued and supported. Whether through acts of kindness, financial contributions or volunteering, you are helping to make Wellington not just a place to live, but a place to give.

From all of us here at the Village of Wellington, we wish you and your family a joyous and peaceful holiday season. May your days be filled with love, laughter and the warmth of community.

 

Village Park Arrives In Wellington
The New Village’s First Major Approval Was A Large Park Complex To Fill A Huge Need For Sports Fields

By Joshua Manning

This issue, our Wellington History series travels back to a time before Wellington had parks and recreational facilities considered among the best in the state. Just two months after the inaugural Wellington Village Council was seated, they approved plans for Village Park, but the story begins much earlier.

It was a historic moment in May 1996 when the inaugural Wellington Village Council approved the newly incorporated community’s first major municipal development — a park complex including sports fields and a gymnasium/recreation center. The decision created what is now known as Village Park at 11700 Pierson Road. The total cost of the first phase was an estimated $6.2 million.

Village Park today is so woven into the fabric of life in Wellington that imagining a community without it is difficult. But Wellington in the mid-1990s was a community with a booming population of families and precious few sports fields. The population had grown from about 5,000 residents in 1980 to more than 20,000 in 1990, and the need for recreation facilities soared.

The decision to build the park was made by a council that had been seated just two months earlier, but it was the culmination of six years of discussion and work by Wellington’s pre-incorporation government, the Acme Improvement District, and scores of recreation activists with big dreams.

The need for more recreation facilities in Wellington long predated the village’s incorporation on Dec. 31, 1995.

At an Acme-hosted public forum in May 1995, as reported in the Town-Crier, leaders from local sports leagues noted that Wellington was far behind its neighboring communities in providing recreational facilities for children and adults, which was hampering the growth of sports programs and forcing residents to leave the community.

The goal of the forum was to convince Acme supervisors to finance a large recreation complex on Pierson Road, which would be the first phase of a much larger facility that would eventually be needed.

It was part of an ongoing discussion with ups and downs. A year earlier, voters turned down a larger $13 million parks and recreation proposal. However, moving forward, Acme officials said that perhaps a smaller complex would be more successful. Recreation leaders at the time suggested perhaps a $3 to $4 million facility.

At that 1995 forum, Bruce DeLaney, who would later serve as Wellington’s longtime parks and recreation director before his retirement, said that the basketball program he was running had 500 children and no Acme facilities for basketball. “We are completely dependent on the high school,” he told the Acme supervisors at the time.

Ken Koch, who ran the local softball program, said that Wellington’s recreational facilities were woefully lacking, adding that he had only one field for 13 teams to share. Western Communities Football League President Joe Piconcelli added that the situation is also dire for football and baseball players, where hundreds of kids had left the community to play.

It did not fall on deaf ears. Acme supervisors generally supported building a large sports complex but were hampered by financial concerns.

“We were trying to figure out a master plan for the community, and obviously the needs for sports fields kept coming up,” recalled Kathy Foster, then an Acme supervisor and later the first mayor of Wellington. “We had to identify a large parcel of land available to the village for fields.”

Foster explained that the board did not want to divide it up, putting one or two fields for individual sports on tiny pieces of land all across the community.

“We had to find one piece of land that could accommodate multiple sports, and everything the committee looked at kept coming back to the Village Park site,” Foster said. “There was nothing even close to it.”

There were problems with the site though. At the time, it was designated for overflow from the nearby water treatment plant, but Acme’s engineers eventually decided that use was unlikely to be needed.

“At the time, we didn’t really need the size of it, but we would over the long term,” Foster noted.

There was also an issue with the location.

“At the time the park was instituted, the population was focused along Forest Hill Blvd. and Big Blue Trace,” Foster said. “Access to the park was still the major issue.”

This included not only the distance from the population center, but also a road getting to the park.

“We didn’t have the right of way,” Foster recalled. “It was not designed as an access road for a major park. However, we were able to widen it enough to legally have a two-lane road access.”

And then there were objections from the park’s immediate neighbors. In April 1996, Palm Beach Polo homeowners began a last-minute campaign to stop the proposed park on Pierson Road. “The people who lived near the park were very much opposed to it,” Foster said.

However, officials in the newly incorporated village vowed to continue with the large park project.

“It was a long haul, but we didn’t have a lot of options,” Foster continued. “We knew that we would eventually want to build a gymnasium and more, and nothing we had available could accommodate that.”

She specifically noted the work of recreation activists Valerie McKinlay and Dick Palenchat to keep the park project moving forward, as well as Debbie Brisson, an Acme board member who supported the park project and later became the new village’s parks and recreation director.

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held for the planned recreation center at Village Park in October 1996. Fields at the new park opened a year later in October 1997, followed three months later, in January 1998, by the new recreation center building. This completed the first phase of the facility, which the village has been adding to ever since.

Thousands of residents attended the opening ceremony to celebrate the community’s first large sports facility. That first phase brought pavilions, concession stands, two roller hockey rinks, two softball/baseball fields, four football/soccer fields and a 25,000-square-foot gymnasium that included classrooms and offices for recreation staff.

Today, Village Park remains Wellington’s main regional park and athletic facility, encompassing more than 114 acres. The original recreation center has been expanded twice, once in 2005 and again in 2013, and now includes 75,000 square feet of space, including two full-sized basketball courts and additional activity space.

The park also contains a covered hockey rink, 19 multipurpose athletic fields, six concession stands, three playgrounds, two miles of lighted recreational trails and four picnic pavilions. It’s Wellington’s largest public gathering space, hosting events such as the village’s annual Fourth of July celebration and fireworks show. It even has a stickball setup that is home to the Wycliffe Stiffs stickball league.

While the sports programs draw crowds of athletes of all ages, another popular draw is the Peaceful Waters Sanctuary near the park’s back entrance off 120th Avenue South. This passive preserve was created in partnership with the village’s water utility. The 30-acre wetlands park with 1,500 feet of elevated boardwalks and one mile of walking trails is home to a variety of animals and plant species native to South Florida. Bird watchers, in particular, love visiting Peaceful Waters for the wide avian diversity.

And in 2025, Village Park is slated to get two major upgrades. Currently under construction at the park’s south end are the village’s new aquatics complex with both a recreational pool area and a competition pool area. Also, Jon Bostic’s Wellington Athletics group is building the new Wellington Sports Academy high-end training facility at the park as part of a public-private partnership.

“I think it is amazing. Thousands of children are participating there from sunrise to sunset,” Foster said, looking back nearly 30 years later. “I am so glad the council and the recreation committee had the foresight to put aside all this land. We have definitely maximized the use of that land, which is wonderful.”

Wellington Community Foundation Supports Children, Veterans & Seniors 
Join In The Effort At Nov. 8 Event

The Wellington Community Foundation invites you to the ninth annual Red, White & Blue Jeans: “A Salute to Our Heroes” event, taking place Friday, Nov. 8. This heartfelt gathering will be held at the Wellington National Golf Club from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Your presence is not just welcomed; it’s cherished. In a world where community connections matter more than ever, this event is a powerful reminder of what the community can achieve when it comes together with a common purpose. This year, the foundation aims to raise $100,000 to support vital initiatives for children, seniors and veterans right here in Wellington.

The impact of your contributions is priceless. Picture a child stepping into their first day of school, proudly wearing a new uniform and carrying a backpack filled with supplies, ready to embrace the year ahead. Visualize a senior receiving a lovely bouquet and a heartfelt card on their birthday, brightening their day, and reminding them of their importance. Consider veterans receiving essential home modifications, such as grab bars and ramps, enabling them to live safely and independently in their home. And let’s not forget the seniors who will enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal, bringing joy and comfort to their holiday.

These are not just programs; they are lifelines. They represent a collective commitment to addressing the hidden needs within the Wellington community, where affluence and need coexist in surprising ways. With your support, the foundation can transform lives, ensuring that every child has the resources to learn, every senior feels valued, and every veteran has the opportunity to thrive through education.

The Wellington Community Foundation cannot achieve its ambitious $100,000 goal without your help. Every dollar contributed will go directly to these essential programs, ensuring that your generosity creates real, lasting change.

Whether you choose to make a substantial donation or a smaller gift, know that every contribution matters. Together, you can help bridge gaps, uplift lives and create a more compassionate community.

The foundation thanks you for your unwavering support and belief in the power of coming together for a greater cause. The Nov. 8 event will be a celebration of the community’s strength and generosity, and a testament to the shared commitment to “Building a Stronger Community.”

The foundation is proud to acknowledge sponsor Wellington Regional Medical Center, as well as the dozens of local businesses and community leaders whose generosity makes this event possible. Tickets are available for $100 each, with table sponsorship options at $1,250 for a party of eight — an ideal way to enjoy this special night while championing a meaningful cause.

For further details, and to secure your tickets, visit www.wellingtoncommunityfoundation.org. If you are unable to attend, consider making a donation to help the foundation continue its vital work. Join the foundation in celebrating the spirit of giving and help make a profound difference.

 

 

Murray Kessler Tapped As CEO With Former Ownership Group To Acquire Wellington International 

Planned Expansion Of The Showgrounds Will Move Forward

The former majority owners of the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center — Mark Bellissimo, Marsha Dammerman, Lisa Lourie and Roger Smith — recently formed a new entity called WI FL Acquisition LLC to acquire the Wellington International showgrounds.

The company announced Tuesday, Oct. 22 that it has signed a binding agreement to acquire Wellington International from Global Equestrian Group. Once the transaction closes, longtime equestrian leader and Wellington resident Murray S. Kessler will lead Wellington International as chief executive officer.

Kessler said that since taking over the position, he has become even more excited about the future of equestrian sport in Wellington.

“I have had the opportunity to speak to more than 100 professionals across dressage, para-dressage, jumping and hunters, and across the board, there is amazing support for what we are setting out to accomplish, and will accomplish, over the next few years. I am energized to be leading the way,” he said.

Bellissimo said that the planned expansion of the showgrounds will move forward.

“This is an extraordinary opportunity to invest in the existing showgrounds, undergo a major expansion and add new executive leadership to ensure that Wellington remains the premier horse sport venue for show jumping, hunters and dressage at all levels of competition,” he said. “We are committed to long-term ownership, ensuring that the showgrounds thrive in Wellington for generations to come, while welcoming new riders and new families to the sport.”

Global Equestrian Group bought the showgrounds in 2021 with a promise of major upgrades.

“When we invested in Wellington International, we promised to take the venue to the next level, and I am happy to conclude that has been achieved. The sale is a testament to the fact that Wellington International is now ready for its next chapter,” said Andreas Helgstrand, CEO of Global Equestrian Group.

Kessler, the incoming CEO, is the former CEO of three Fortune 500 companies, former president of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), former president of the North American Riders Group, father of 2012 London Olympic show jumper Reed Kessler and stepfather to dressage rider Bebe Davis. He is a 48-year resident of Wellington, where he currently resides with his wife Sarah.

“I am excited to work with Wellington International President Michael Stone and his world-class management team to capitalize on this remarkable growth opportunity,” Kessler said. “We will immediately be seeking input from community leaders, governing bodies, exhibitors and partners as we develop and execute our plans that include significant investment for existing facility upgrades and the building of new world-class facilities on the expanded showgrounds.”

Wellington International hosts the largest and longest-running equestrian competition series in the world, hosting 42 weeks of competition annually across the equestrian disciplines of show jumping, hunters, dressage and para-dressage.

“Wellington International and its horse shows are the anchor of Wellington and a key ingredient to what makes our great community unique,” Kessler said.

The facility hosts more than 350,000 spectators, 15,000 horses and 7,500 competitors. Each season, Wellington International stages the Winter Equestrian Festival and an array of competitions, divisions and participants in the sport, and contributes an estimated $400-plus million in economic impact to Palm Beach County.

“I look forward to working with Murray and the partners, who know the business and the community so well, to make Wellington International’s showgrounds the standard to which all grounds are measured,” Wellington International President Michael Stone said.

“For me, this is an amazing opportunity to provide the stable, long-term success we all want for the showgrounds and the community of Wellington,” said Lisa Lourie, one of the partners and also founder of SpyCoast Farm, one of the nation’s largest sport horse breeding operations. “We all want the showgrounds to be a world-class venue where we can enjoy our sport in a community we love, and our partnership is committed to making that happen.”

Learn more about the upcoming season at www.wellingtoninternational.com.

 

U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team Strikes Gold At Games In Paris

By Kara Pinato Scro/Jump Media

In a landmark result, the U.S. Paralympic Dressage Team stamped its place in the history books by earning the gold medal at the conclusion of team competition at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, France.

This marked the first-ever team gold for the U.S. Para Dressage Team at a Paralympic Games and the second consecutive paralympic team medal, following its team bronze at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.

The three team athletes included Rebecca Hart of Wellington with Rowan O’Riley’s Floratina, Roxanne Trunnell of Royal Palm Beach with Karin Flint’s Fan Tastico H, and Fiona Howard of Boston with Diamond Dunes, owned by Dressage Family LLC and Hof Kasselmann.

The athletes also brought home individual medals, with Hart taking gold in the Grade III Individual test and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle. Howard scored two additional gold medals in the Grade II Individual test and the FEI Grand Prix Freestyle. Additionally, Trunnell finished with silver in the Grade I Individual test, while Wellington’s Kate Shoemaker and Vianne, owned by NorCordia USA, captured the bronze medal in the Grade IV FEI Grand Prix Freestyle.

All sports require a team effort to propel athletes to the world stage, but equestrian sport has one unique differentiator — the horse owners. The costs associated with producing, caring for and competing top horses are steep, particularly as the U.S. does not provide any government funding for equestrian programs. As a result, it can be challenging for athletes to sustain excellence at the elite level without the partnership of an owner or sponsor. This is especially true for para dressage athletes, who often have significant day-to-day expenses related to therapy, medications or extra care.

Thankfully, the sport has a dedicated and passionate group of individuals who share the aspirations of successfully representing the country at the highest international levels. These individuals have offered their support by way of horses to many of U.S. elite athletes and have maintained years-long relationships with them to ensure consistent competitive excellence.

Among them are paralympic horse owners Karin Flint and Rowan O’Riley, who spoke recently about their experiences at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris and the vital role they play in helping the U.S. equestrian teams sustain prominence on the world stage.

O’Riley, of Boston’s Fair Sky Farm, owns Hart’s paralympic mount, Floratina. “It’s so rewarding to represent our country, and I’m so proud to wear the team jackets and be together with the team contingent,” O’Riley said. “It’s such a thrill to see the U.S. flag go up the pole. We also have a friendly and competitive relationship with our counterparts in other countries.”

O’Riley noted that it is an extremely time-consuming and expensive task to own horses for U.S. equestrian teams. “The flip side is that it’s an incredibly rewarding passion project,” she said. “I love the travel, and I love the whole experience. It has added a lot to my life.”

She invited others to get involved in supporting the para dressage program.

“U.S. Equestrian’s para dressage program receives funding from the USET Foundation, and that has helped the program grow and improve,” O’Riley said. “Over the past five years in particular, the USET Foundation has helped fund training for emerging and elite athletes, and Chef d’Equipe Michel [Assouline] has produced a handbook for trainers to learn about training para athletes. The para dressage program now has a high-performance pathway that helps guide emerging athletes toward the elite level. That didn’t exist before. This is a direct result of funding from the USET Foundation and vision and insight from Michel, who saw what could be improved in this young sport in the U.S.”

Karin Flint of Wellington owns Trunnell’s 2024 paralympic mount Fan Tastico H, as well as her Tokyo mount Dolton. She enjoyed her experiences in Paris.

“I kept saying, ‘Pinch me! Is this real?’ It was so special and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she recalled. “The venue was wonderful, and the experience will be in my heart for the rest of my life. I was proud to be there for my country, for my trainer and for my rider. I’m blessed that I can do this.”

She particularly enjoyed the team attitude on display.

“In the stables, it was such a loving, warm and happy environment. It was a great atmosphere for everyone and very encouraging because all the riders understand the hard work it takes to get there. When the athletes had fabulous rides, the other athletes shared in the celebrations,” Flint recalled.

Flint was proud to do her part to support U.S. athletes on the world stage.

“I always wanted to represent my country — I’m very patriotic — so ownership is a fulfilling dream,” she said. “The riders are a group of people striving to represent their country in the best way, and they have all worked so hard. I’ve seen the ups and downs and tears. When it doesn’t go right, you feel it with them.”

Winning the gold medal was just the icing on the cake.

“In the team competition in Paris, when the last team score was tallied, and we knew the U.S. had won the gold medal, the joy we felt was so fabulous. It was really wonderful. I love seeing other people happy. We were sad when the Paralympics ended,” Flint said.

Like O’Riley, she urged others to get involved in supporting U.S. equestrian sport.

“The USET Foundation provides funding for USEF’s para dressage program,” Flint said. “Everyone knows it takes a lot of money to run a program like this, so if you love horses and love what you see, then I hope you will contribute whatever you can. We couldn’t have done what we did in Paris without the USET Foundation’s support. If you’re a participant in any of the wonderful USET Foundation or USEF programs, it’s great to support them.”

To show support for the U.S. equestrian teams, visit the USET Foundation at www.uset.org.

 

Experience The Magic Of Horses At The Winter Equestrian Festival

By Alicia McLaughlin

The 2025 Winter Equestrian Festival promises to be the most thrilling season yet. Hosted at the Wellington International showgrounds, WEF is the largest and longest-running annual equestrian competition in the world, spanning 13 weeks from Jan. 1 through March 30, 2025. This 2025 edition will captivate equestrian enthusiasts and newcomers alike with its blend of top-tier show jumping, family-friendly events and entertainment, all within a world-class venue.

From Wednesday to Sunday each week, Wellington International opens its doors from 8 a.m. until the end of daily competitions, usually wrapping up around 4 p.m. Visitors can enjoy more than 100 food and retail vendors scattered throughout the grounds, with plenty of shady spots to take in the excitement of the equestrian events. Visitors can watch elite athletes competing at the highest level of show jumping each day. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or attending for the first time, WEF offers an accessible yet world-class experience.

Enjoy show jumping and entertainment under the night sky at one of the marquee attractions of WEF — the fan-favorite Saturday Night Lights series. Every Saturday evening, the International Arena transforms into a Grand Prix spectacle, featuring elite show jumping competition. Gates open at 6 p.m., with the main event kicking off at 7 p.m. But Saturday Night Lights is more than just show jumping; it’s an experience for the whole family. Admission is free, with a small parking fee, and the night includes live music, food vendors, a petting zoo, face painting, a carousel and plenty of additional entertainment options. Top athletes will compete for prestigious titles, giving visitors a front-row seat to the very best in equestrian sport.

For those seeking an upgraded experience, Wellington International offers exclusive hospitality options. The Blue Ribbon Club provides premium seating and dining, while the Gallery (available during evenings with 4* and 5* events) offers a sophisticated viewing space that turns into a nightclub once the competition ends. Alternatively, the Tiki Hut offers casual dining and prime views of the action all week long, with reserved seating available for purchase on Saturday nights.

The festival is packed with exciting and diverse competitions that cater to all tastes and interests, such as the $75,000 Battle of the Sexes. This lively competition pits eight men against eight women in a thrilling relay race across a jumping course. Expect fast-paced action, high energy and lots of crowd interaction as the teams battle it out for bragging rights.

For those who love to see the next generation of riders, don’t miss the Leadline Classes on select Sundays. This adorable event features kids as young as one competing in the International Arena, showcasing their potential as future equestrian stars.

The Great Charity Challenge, sponsored by Fidelity Investments, brings together one professional and two junior/amateur riders in a relay competition in costume. This heartwarming event blends equestrian sport and philanthropy, raising more than $2.25 million in 2024 for more than 50 local charities. It’s an uplifting highlight that reflects Wellington International’s deep commitment to supporting the community.

The $150,000 CSIO4* Nations Cup, presented by Florida Coast Equipment, is one of the most prestigious events at WEF. The Nations Cup brings together teams from around the world, each representing their country in a thrilling show jumping competition. Fans will be cheering on their favorite nations as teams strive to take home the coveted title. Last year, Ireland won. Who will be our winning nation this year?

For fans of hunter competitions, the $100,000 Peter Wetherill WCHR/USHJA Hunter Spectacular is a must-see event. Combining grace and precision, the competition showcases the finest hunter horse-and-rider combinations in the U.S. as they take to the arena in a display of elegance.

Under the lights, hunter riders will also take part in the $100,000 Team Hunter Competition benefiting the Neil S. Hirsch Family Boys & Girls Club of Wellington, a unique team event, jumping a 3’3” course in the International Arena. It’s an exciting addition to the WEF lineup.

The WEF Equitation Championship, presented by Arion Sellier, puts young riders to the test, removing all outside help from trainers or assistants. Riders must walk the course, plan their strategy and warm up entirely on their own, making it one of the most unique and prestigious equitation events in the country.

As the grand finale of WEF, the $750,000 Rolex U.S. Equestrian Open Grand Prix stands as one of the most prestigious show jumping events in the U.S. and marks the final (and only U.S.) stop in the inaugural Rolex Series. With $750,000 in prize money on the line, this event attracts the best riders from around the world, competing at the highest level, ensuring a dramatic and thrilling conclusion to the competition season.

Beyond its sporting and entertainment value, WEF is a critical driver of the local economy. In 2024, WEF generated an impressive $403.6 million in economic impact for Palm Beach County, a 14 percent increase from the previous year.

WEF 2025 promises to be an unforgettable season of sport, entertainment and community impact. Whether you’re a passionate equestrian fan or just looking for a fun day out, WEF has something for everyone.

Wellington International is located at 3400 Equestrian Club Drive. Learn more at www.wellingtoninternational.com.

Exciting Season Planned At The National Polo Center In Wellington

By The United States Polo Association

Located in the heart of Wellington’s renowned horse country, the USPA National Polo Center (NPC) is the United States Polo Association’s premier venue and the perpetual home for polo in the United States. Arriving at the property, visitors are greeted by a palm-tree-lined drive that leads to six of the most manicured polo fields in the world.

Every Sunday from the end of December until the last week of April, catch the action from the stadium, private boxes, fieldside tailgates or special hospitality tents, all overlooking the prestigious U.S. Polo Assn. Field One. Participate in the halftime divot stomp and enjoy champagne to fully immerse yourself in the traditions of Sunday polo.

Celebrate the George Miller Memorial season opener on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, and kick off the New Year with the Heritage Cup final set for Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025. The 2025 winter season is highlighted by the Gauntlet of Polo, from February to April, featuring the world’s top teams, athletes and horses competing for the historic C.V. Whitney Cup, USPA Gold Cup and U.S. Open Polo Championship trophies.

Sunday brunch at the Pavilion features an ever-changing array of freshly made pastries, an omelet bar and other delicious items. Savor your meal on the spacious outdoor terrace with a fieldside view of the finest polo in the nation, or elevate your experience in the Polo VIP Lounge with a private check-in area, exclusive fieldside seating, a bottle of champagne, and a blini and caviar spread. On the stadium side, be sure to indulge in an Argentine asado or stop by the wooden horses to try your hand at the game. After the game, make your way to the Mallet Grille and pool area for live music, cocktails and a chance to mingle with the players.

Beyond the Gauntlet of Polo, NPC also hosts the U.S. Open Women’s Polo Championship showcasing the world’s top female players in North America’s most significant women’s polo tournament. For the first time, the semifinals will be held at NPC and will be scheduled earlier in the season than in previous years. Also on the docket is the third edition of the NPC 16-Goal Championship, a series of four qualifying tournaments — the Joe Barry Memorial, the Ylvisaker Cup, the Iglehart Cup and the Outback Cup — that culminate in a final overarching competition.

The NPC season will also showcase USPA members from clubs around the country competing at the low-goal level, including the National President’s Cup. The second edition of the tournament at NPC and under the new format will bring together some of the most talented 8-goal teams in the nation. The tournament consists of up to 14 regional qualifying tournaments, with the winning teams advancing to the National President’s Cup and traveling to NPC in April.

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’s adaptability shines as it hosts a range of activities, including fundraisers for leading local charities, weddings, corporate gatherings, indoor candlelight and outdoor concerts. Perfect for hosting hundreds of guests, NPC offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for special occasions. The possibilities are endless with an expansive outdoor oasis suited to host anything from other sporting events to graduations on one of NPC’s top 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 facility welcomes spectators every Sunday afternoon from Dec. 29 through April 27 to experience the prestige of U.S. Polo Assn. Field One.

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

Grand Champions Polo Club Celebrating 18th Season In Wellington

By Sharon Robb

Grand Champions, the nation’s largest polo club, started celebrating its 18th anniversary during the fall season and will continue for what is expected to be the best winter season in club history.

The World Polo League, now in its seventh year, returns with some of the world’s top polo players competing in 26-goal polo — the only 26-goal polo held outside of Argentina.

Four WPL tournaments are set. They are the Feb. 6-16 All-Star Challenge, the Feb. 19 – March 2 Founders Cup, the March 5-23 Palm Beach Open and the March 26 – April 19 Triple Crown of Polo.

Grand Champions hosted both medium-goal and high-goal tournaments during the fall season and will host even more events during the winter. There will be 6-goal, 8-goal, 12-goal and 16-goal league tournaments, and high-goal tournaments, including the Jan. 30 – Feb. 9 Sterling Cup (18-22 goals), the Feb. 5-22 $100,000 World Cup (0-40 goals) and the Feb. 24 – March 8 Santa Rita Abierto (18-22 goals).

Grand Champions will also host Sunset Chukkers & Cocktails, the Polo School Women’s League at Santa Rita Polo Farm, the WCT Finals and plenty of polo lessons at the Polo School.

The well-organized tournaments attract players from all over the world, including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, Uruguay, San Salvador, England, France, India, Mexico, Azerbaijan, New Zealand, Nigeria, Uzbekistan, South Africa and the United States.

To finish out the fall season in November, there are several highlight events, including two new additions to the schedule: the Nov. 14 World Polo League Pride Polo Miami and the Nov. 15-17 Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach. It’s the first time the popular beach polo tournament and WPL Pride Polo are being held in the fall at South Beach.

The Beach Polo World Cup Miami Beach is the largest and most notable beach polo event in the world. It features international teams with several players from Wellington, including Nic Roldan, one of the world’s top players, and more than 120 horses.

Among other November highlights are the Oct. 29 – Nov. 6 USPA North American Cup and Nov. 4-13 USPA National 20-Goal Championship, and the Nov. 23 doubleheader featuring the Legends of Polo Carlos Gracida Memorial and the International Cup.

Grand Champions, with 10 world-class fields, is the only club that hosts two 20-goal fall tournaments. In last year’s International Cup, Spain knocked off previously unbeaten GCPC USA to snap its 11-year win streak in front of a packed house at the Santa Rita Polo Farm.

The family-friendly Grand Champions Polo Club welcomes spectators of all ages. All matches, food and refreshments are free, with the exception of special catered events, and open to the public, as well as dogs on leashes.

Grand Champions and the Santa Rita Polo Farm is the largest and most unique private 102-acre polo facility in Wellington with 212 stalls in nine self-contained barns, two tracks, five climate-controlled tack rooms, a vet room, staff quarters, a guest house and four polo fields with state-of-the-art underground irrigation and a short work arena. The club has 10 well-manicured world-class fields at GCPC and Santa Rita.

The Grand Champions Polo Club caters to men, women and youth polo players at all levels. Its expert staff can customize a complete playing experience, including horses, pros and certified umpires, in addition to lessons and practice sessions as part of the Polo on Demand program. The Polo School is for all ages and ability levels and operates in Wellington year-round.

Learn more about the Grand Champions Polo Club at www.gcpolo.com.

Magic Awaits At The 2025 Adequan Global Dressage Festival

By Alicia McLaughlin

The equestrian world is once again anticipating the return of the 2025 Adequan Global Dressage Festival (AGDF). From Jan. 8 to March 30, 2025, the AGDF will feature 12 weeks of thrilling events, competitions and showcases that celebrate the unparalleled bond between horses and riders, the intricacy of dressage and the passion that drives the sport.

Over the years, the festival has evolved into one of the world’s premier platforms for dressage, offering a stage for international talent to shine. Set against the backdrop of the Equestrian Village in Wellington, this season promises a tapestry of unforgettable experiences for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport.

Friday Night Stars — A dazzling spectacle under the lights, one of the most anticipated events at the AGDF is Friday Night Stars, taking place on select Friday evenings. These events showcase CDI Grand Prix Freestyles, where the world’s top equestrian athletes and their horses perform complex routines set to music.

Whether it’s classical symphonies or modern hits, the diverse soundtrack enhances the beauty and precision of the performances. This year, Friday Night Stars will feature three CDI-W World Cup Qualifiers, giving riders the opportunity to qualify for the prestigious FEI Dressage World Cup Final in Basel, Switzerland. With doors opening at 6 p.m. and the show beginning at 7 p.m., spectators can expect an unforgettable evening. General admission is free, with a small fee for parking.

U25 Dressage Classes — Among the key events for the 2025 season, the U25 dressage classes offer a platform for emerging young talent and provide a bridge between youth classes and Grand Prix competition. By offering invaluable experience and opportunities, the AGDF ensures that future dressage superstars have a stage to develop and flourish.

CDIO3* Nations Cup — Following Germany’s victory in 2023 and 2024, the 2025 CDIO3* Nations Cup is set to be one of the most exciting team competitions of the season. This event emphasizes teamwork and national pride, with riders competing in teams to secure the coveted title.

Para Dressage Competitions — A true testament to inclusivity and the indomitable human spirit, para dressage has been a proud part of the AGDF for more than 10 years. This year, AGDF para dressage riders made history by winning five gold medals, one silver and one bronze at the Paralympic Games in Paris, showcasing their exceptional skill on the world stage. At the AGDF, these talented riders will once again demonstrate their grace, precision and deep connection with their horses, inspiring audiences and celebrating the boundless possibilities within the sport.

The Palm Beach Derby — The legendary Palm Beach Dressage Derby will be a key highlight of the season. Established in 1983, this iconic event is known for its unique derby format, where riders showcase their adaptability and skill. It’s a competition that tests not just familiarity but also pure technique, making it a favorite for riders and spectators alike.

The 2025 season will see upgrades to the Van Kampen Arena, thanks to the support of Wellington Lifestyle Partners. The new, state-of-the-art footing, expertly installed by JTWG Inc., will enhance performance, safety and enjoyment for athletes and horses alike. These improvements, which align with the December 2023 upgrades to the AGDF International Stadium and schooling areas, underscore AGDF’s commitment to offering the best possible conditions for competition.

Equestrian Village, home of the Adequan Global Dressage Festival, is located at 13500 South Shore Blvd. in Wellington. For the latest AGDF updates, visit https://gdf.coth.com.

2025 AGDF
Weekly Schedule

Week 1 (Jan. 8-12)
CDI-W and National

Week 3 (Jan. 22-26)
CDI4* and National

Week 5 (Feb. 5-9)
CDI-W and National

Week 6 (Feb. 14-16)
National

Week 7 (Feb. 19-23)
CDIO3* and National

Week 8 (Feb. 26 – March 2)
Palm Beach Derby
CDI-W and National

Week 9 (March 6-9
CPEDI3* and National

Week 10 (March 12-16)
CDI5* and National

Week 11 (March 21-23)
National

Week 12 (March 26-30)
CDI4* and National

The weekly schedule for the 2025 Adequan Global Dressage Festival is subject to adjustments, pending FEI and USEF approvals. Visit
https://gdf.coth.com to learn more.