The United States Polo Association announced the passing of longtime USPA member and polo player Bob Daniels on Saturday. Daniels died as a result of injuries sustained from an accident while playing polo at his home field in Wellington.
A member of the USPA since 1981, Daniels served on the High Goal Committee from 2011 through 2014, as well as the USPA Umpires board from 2012 through the present.
“Everyone at the U.S. Polo Association and our entire polo community is deeply saddened by the passing of Bob Daniels, one of our sport’s most prominent and dedicated players, and an avid supporter of our association,” USPA CEO Duncan Huyler said. “Bob was a true advocate for polo and a staple in the game he loved. He will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
Daniels spent 16 consecutive years (1996-2011) competing in the USPA’s U.S. Open Polo Championship with Pony Express, making it to the finals at Palm Beach Polo & Country Club in 1999, where his horse, Lupe, was also honored with the Willis L. Hartman Trophy for Best Playing Pony in the U.S. Open.
He also competed for 16 consecutive years (1983-1998) in the East Coast Open, capturing the title at Myopia Hunt Club in 1988.
Additional accolades include three-time Champion’s Cup appearances, each alongside his son Marc Daniels (1992, 1998, 2012). In 2009, he won the Hall of Fame Cup with teammates Pelon Stirling, Matias Magrini and Nic Roldan.
“Bob was the epitome of a polo gentleman, a caring and loving father, and a longtime personal friend,” USPA Chairman Joe Meyer said. “Bob was welcoming to patrons, players and professionals alike.”
ABOVE: Daniels also enjoyed helping the young kids play and enjoy polo.
