NEWS

Mark O'Brien's journey into the world of polo is as engaging and spirited as the game itself. From his early days as a horseman, emphasized by the bond with his first horse Count Me Now, and encouraged by a father with deep roots in Texas ranching, O’Brien's path was always going to be intertwined with equestrian pursuits. However, it was the dynamic nature of polo that eventually captured his attention, leading him to dive headfirst into the sport in the early 1990s.

Fast forward to the present, O’Brien and his family have fully embraced polo as a year-round passion. The revival of his polo enthusiasm ignited during the COVID-19 pandemic, had him not just returning to the sport but also bringing his wife and sons into the fold under the guidance of Argentine polo pro, Martin Tassara. Tassara's influence has been instrumental in the formation and success of the Hayfork Polo Team, which O’Brien represents with pride and joy. Their team, a blend of family, professional acumen and a deep connection to their horses clinched the Pacific Coast Circuit Constitution Cup 8-Goal at the Eldorado Polo Club in Indio, California. This victory marks a significant milestone in their polo journey.

The Eldorado Polo Club, with its vibrant atmosphere and close-knit community, offers a unique setting that has become a second home to the O'Brien family and the Hayfork Polo Team during the winter months. The club's culture of camaraderie, where games are followed by shared moments among friends and fellow polo enthusiasts, stands out to O’Brien as a testament to the sport's appeal.

How were you first introduced to polo and what drew you to the sport?
“I have always been a horseman. As a boy, I learned to ride through our local Pony Club, getting my first horse, Count Me Now, a retired thoroughbred, from the track. We were both eleven years old! My father, who worked at the Matador Ranch in Texas as a teenager, encouraged me to ride and supported my horse habit."

"In my mid-twenties, I competed in timed endurance rides which was a time in the saddle, but l wanted a little more excitement on the horse. Fast forward to the early 1990s, I started watching the polo matches at the Trione Field in Santa Rosa [California]—I was hooked. I enrolled in a Reggie Ludwig polo clinic at The Empire Polo Club. I was shopping for horses before the clinic was over. I played for 10 years then needed to take a break to focus on my career and family.

During COVID-19 the polo itch returned. In the spring of 2021, I headed to Indio [California] to buy horses. The return to polo was not a slippery slope but more like jumping off a cliff. Within hours of arriving at the polo fields, I met Argentine polo pro, Martin Tassara. We went for a ride, drank maté and the next thing I knew, my wife and sons were playing polo too. Martin Tassara has been the driving force behind our polo operation’s success.”

On average, how much of your year is dedicated to playing polo and related activities?
“Polo has become a year-round activity for my wife, Alma, and our family. We both play during the winter at Eldorado and spend the summers playing at the Trione field in Santa Rosa with our boys. Last September, I played the 8-goal in Santa Barbara [California] while Alma played the Mixed Magic tournament and pro-pool.”

Can you walk us through the process of how you assembled the Hayfork Polo team?
“All the credit goes to Martin Tassara. We succeeded through his expertise and the professionalism of his organization and grooms. We work together throughout the entire year, which allows us to build a solid foundation for success. But the most essential aspect of our success is the horses! All my horses came from Martin’s operation in Argentina. I am 63 and I want to play fast, competitive polo and need intelligent, safe and strong horses. The strength of his stable is impressive. In the final of the USPA 8-Goal Fish Creek Cup [Pacific Coast Circuit Constitution Cup 8-Goal], three players, including myself, were playing horses provided by Martin’s operation.”

Winning the Pacific Coast Circuit Constitution Cup 8-Goal must have been an exhilarating experience. Can you describe the moment you realized your team won this competition?
“In 2022, the Hayfork team won the USPA Carlton & Keleen Beal Cup, our first win! But the [Pacific Coast Circuit Constitution Cup 8-Goal] win was memorable. We played a very skillful, fast and determined Antelope team. The outcome was not determined until the last minute of the sixth chukker. Our team came together and played an amazing game. My relief and satisfaction at the final whistle was something that I think all polo players strive for.”

What are your future goals for yourself and the Hayfork Polo Team?
“We will continue to maintain and strengthen our program by bringing on new horses and supporting our crew. We plan to be back in the desert next winter and play some competitive fun polo.”

How do you perceive the polo scene at Eldorado Polo Club in Indio [California], and how does it compare to the broader polo community in the state?
“I only have experience playing at the Wine Country Club in Santa Rosa and Santa Barbara, so I really can't speak about the broader polo-playing experience. Still, I think what we have at Eldorado [Polo Club] is special. Having all the fields in one location promotes a strong group camaraderie. Being able to finish your game and walk over to watch your friends play on the next field is amazing. We all win, and we all lose; at the end of the day, it is your polo friends that keep you coming back!"