NEWS

In a remarkable debut on British soil, American superstar Hope Arellano* achieved her first high-goal tournament victory in the United Kingdom competing in the highly esteemed Cirencester Ladies Open for the Countess Lilias Cup with Semper Anticus (Clarinda Tija-Dharmadi, Nina Clarkin, Candelaria “Cande” Fernández Araujo). Hosted by Cirencester Park Polo Club (Gloucestershire, United Kingdom), the Cirencester Ladies Open is in the only 0- to 40-goal women’s tournament in the United Kingdom. Founded by Clarinda Tija-Dharmadi with the support of Melissa Ganzi and the WPT, the Cirencester Ladies Open remains the highest rated women’s tournament outside of Argentina.

Semper Anticus advanced to the final against UAE (HH Sheikha Maitha M Rashid Al Maktoum, Milly Hine, Hazel Jackson, Izzy Parsons). Showcasing her exceptional talent as a key member of Semper Anticus, Arellano and her teammates orchestrated an 8-5 triumph to capture the prestigious title. UAE posing a formidable challenge, Arellano's triumph stands as proof of her skill and the cohesive teamwork demonstrated by Semper Anticus.

Candelaria Fernández Araujo was awarded Most Valuable Player. Bajita a nine-year-old mare, played by Hope Arellano and owned by Diego Giagante received Best Playing Pony honors.

Arellano spoke to CLICKPOLOUSA about her gratitude for the win, emphasizing the significance of this victory in her career. Sharing her experience of playing alongside her teammates, Arellano describes the camaraderie within the team that contributed to their collective success.

Congratulations on your victory at the Cirencester Ladies Open for the Countess Lilias Cup. How does it feel to win your first high-goal tournament in the United Kingdom?
“Thank you so much, it feels great! That tournament was a special one to win for me. UAE is an amazing team, so it was a tough game.”

How does it compare playing polo in the United Kingdom compared to other countries you've played in so far?
“I really enjoyed it. The field played great. It was fast and open, so I loved it.”

The Cirencester Ladies Open is the only 0- to 40-goal female tournament in the United Kingdom. Is it different to play these kinds of games?
“To be honest it is such a pleasure playing this level of women’s polo. It makes a huge difference and really raises the bar, I’m very impressed with how organized the U.K. women’s circuit is.”

Can you tell us more about your experience playing alongside your Semper Anticus teammates?
“It was really fun for me to play with Clarinda, Nina, and Cande. It was my first time playing with Clarinda and Cande. Clarinda is super positive and so kind [and] Cande is such a fighter! I got caught watching her sometimes with how good she is. Nina is such a great captain and teammate, she is so reassuring and positive, even when you mess up. I really enjoyed playing with the three of them.”

Being awarded the Best Playing Pony is a significant accomplishment. Can you share with us some details on Bajita?
“I loved getting to [play] Bajita. She played three times in the finals [and] she has a lot of power. Plus, her color makes her that much cuter! I’m grateful to have been able to play her.”

How will your season continue?
“I’m here for the month playing with Semper Anticus. It’s a great organization, I’m very happy to be a part of it!”

*Hope Arellano is an Active Member of Team USPA. Team USPA is a USPA program designed to enhance and grow the sport of polo in the United States by identifying young, talented American players and providing mentored training and playing opportunities leading to a pool of higher rated amateur and pro players and the resultant giveback to the sport of polo.

All photos courtesy of ©@polophoto_