Interesting. That is the only way to describe my first ever polo match. The weather was looking a little ominous as we drove the hour and a half to Colts Neck New Jersey but luckily, save for a few spatterings, the rain never really hit us. The area where the grounds are is really beautiful; big gorgeous houses with huge green lawns and well kept stables lined the 2 lane road to Bucks Mill Park.
The hosting pony team, the SLS Jets, is unique in that they are made up of father Simon Garber and his 3 sons Shaun (18), Jeffrey (17) and Tyler (12) along with a guest player each game. This week's guest was world renowned polo player and Ralph Lauren spokes model Nacho Figueras. Figueras is rated among the top 100 polo players in the world. Growing up in Argentina, Nacho now travels globally as part of the Ralph Lauren Black Watch Polo team bringing awareness and his love of the sport to new audiences.
The great thing about the Garber family, along with players like Nacho, is that they have made polo, also referred to as the sport of kings, very accessible to the general public. The games, played just minutes from the gorgeous home they occupy during the summer months, are open free of charge to anyone wanting to watch this very frilling game. People are invited to enjoy the match, nibble on some great food, indulge in a cocktail or two and maybe funnest of all participate in the traditional stomping of the divots during the half time break.
Retired NBA star Darryl Dawkins was on hand to hand out the trophy to the victorious SLS Jets. After the match we were invited back to the Garber's magnificent estate to enjoy more delicious food and great cocktails, provided by Double Cross vodka. Dinner was served by the pool just in front of the well appointed stables and consisted of veggies, pasta, potatoes, melt in your month spare ribs, hot dogs and cheeseburgers. After dinner we were treated to an assortment of cookies, éclairs, and sorbets. When asked who had catered the event that day the lovely hostess, Lina Garber, replied that itwas important to them that they support the local business so they use a company called Branches located in central Jersey. Branches also provided the elegant ice sculptures meticulous placed around the event.
I'm looking forward to becoming more familiar with this exhilarating sport and I thank the Garber family for providing access to watch and learn! My only regret is not meeting the ponies.
Good read. I have never had the opportunity to watch a live polo match. It sounds like it would be fun to see. The food sounds delicious. I found the article fun, fresh and lively. The writing is clear without being flowery. Keep up the good work.
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