Opening day of the International Polo Club’s “Lucky 13” polo season was a smashing success, and it wasn’t just the thrilling Sunday match. The featured match was the Herbie Pennell Cup final, which was won in an exciting, white-knuckle finish, 15-14, by Coca-Cola over Villa del Lago.
More than 6,000 polo enthusiasts celebrated opening day at polo, with the fashionistas rivaling a couture runway show. American soprano Jessica Fishenfeld, young artist in residence with the Palm Beach Opera, thrilled guests with her stirring rendition of the national anthem at the start of the match.
The new Coco Polo Lounge was a sellout, as was the chic Veuve Clicquot Lounge. The trendy, new Funky Buddha Beer Garden was a big hit with craft beer selections, and a lush garden setting complete with a flowing Buddha fountain.
The Sunday champagne brunch crowd was captivated by the stylish, bright-colored linens that adorned the Lilly Pulitzer Patio. Exceeding all expectations was the famous Sunday brunch, which featured the new prime steak carving station, plus many gourmet selections, ice carvings and fabulous florals. DJ Adam Lipson kept the excitement level high by spinning popular tunes.
The high-performance horsepower wasn’t just limited to the field. Exotic, world-class supercars, renowned for luxury, rarity and speed, were lined up, celebrating the launch of SuperCar Week in the Palm Beaches. Judging by the crowd’s enthusiasm, polo fans are looking forward to the next 16 weeks of the sport they love, and the players and teams they adore.
The International Polo Club Palm Beach, located at 3667 120th Avenue South in Wellington, hosts the largest field of high-goal teams and the most prestigious polo tournaments in the United States. The 2016 season continues every Sunday, culminating with the U.S. Open Polo Championship final on Sunday, April 24. Polo matches are open to the public, with a wide range of hospitality and guest seating. Tickets start at $30. For ticketing and sponsorship information, call (561) 204-5687 or visit www.internationalpoloclub.com.
ABOVE: Jessica Fishenfeld, John Wash, Sean Burnett and Sebastian Burnett.
