The Florida Festivals & Events Association recently announced the winners of its annual SUNsational Awards, and the International Polo Club Palm Beach was honored with an award in the “Adaptation of an Event” category. The facility and its team were recognized during the 27th FFEA annual convention and tradeshow for the extensive reopening guide that was produced and implemented to combat the risks of COVID-19 during the 2021 high-goal polo season.
The FFEA SUNsational Awards recognize members’ innovation, individuality and creative collaboration. Nominations were accepted in 10 categories, and a total of 170 events submitted materials for consideration. Submissions were judged by a blue-ribbon panel representing media outlets, printing companies, web site designers, photographers, promotional marketing professionals and social media experts. Out of all the entries in the “Adaptation of an Event” category, IPC was awarded third place.
“The 2021 preparation and execution of polo season was undoubtedly the most challenging one we have faced, but I am so proud of our team for what they were able to accomplish in spite of many hardships and new situations. To receive official recognition for our efforts is quite an honor,” said Vaneli Bojkova, vice president of event operations at IPC.
IPC’s 2021 reopening guide addressed areas such as staff protocols, member and spectator access, sanitizing and cleaning procedures, signage, catering, player and team precautions, and much more. The 12-page document left no room for confusion ahead of the 2021 winter polo season by addressing all concerns that could be raised. In all areas, safety and health were positioned as the highest priorities in order to ensure that the 2021 season preserved the sport of polo and allowed those in the sport to continue their livelihood.
“The SUNsational Awards have recognized and celebrated the talents of our members for more than two decades,” FFEA CEO Suzanne Neve said. “We’re proud of our members and their events — and excited to recognize them in this way each year. This year, in particular, was incredibly rewarding as we showcased the innovation and resilience of festival and event organizers throughout the state during this unprecedented time.”
Though IPC hopes that the 2022 high-goal polo season will not have a need for as many health and safety protocols as those that were implemented in 2021, the venue and its team will continue to operate with a commitment to excellence. Members, spectators and polo teams can expect the same quality of service from IPC for the 2022 season and beyond.
IPC was in good company, with another Wellington-based equestrian organization, the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center, winning second place in the category of “Event Safety Plan.”
Celebrating 27 years, FFEA is a not-for-profit association dedicated to supporting and promoting more than 5,500 festivals, events and fairs in the State of Florida through education, networking and dissemination of information and the cultivation of high standards. For more information, visit www.ffea.com.
