NEWS

SANTA BARBARA, CA (May 11) — A four-man U.S. Polo Assn. team is preparing for this weekend’s final of the 12 Goal Summerland Winery Lisle Nixon Tournament, the first in the summer-long series produced by the Santa Barbara Polo Club. A first for U.S. Polo Assn. team sponsorship but an important component for the brand as they continue to reinforce the authenticity of the sport and brand through supporting up-and-coming polo stars.

The US Polo Assn. team staged a stunning comeback in their first game to upset veteran Santa Barbara competitors Klentner Ranch 11-10, scoring 3 goals in the last 3 minutes of regulation time in a come-from-behind thriller. Team USPA member Patrick Uretz scored the tying goal and game winner for U.S. Polo Assn. The first-round win put U.S. Polo Assn. in a position to control their own destiny heading into the upcoming playoff round on Friday May 19. U.S. Polo Assn. faces the Farmers & Merchants Bank team on Friday, and the winner advances to the Summerland Winery Lisle Nixon Final on Sunday May 14.

The U.S. Polo Assn. team is captained by Luis Escobar, rated at a 5-goal, father of Nico Escobar, a rising star in the polo world, currently rated 1 goal on the field. He is expected to elevate to 3 goals in 2018. Luis Escobar has bounced back nicely from a serious accident three years ago to become a 5 goal player.

The Escobars will be joined by Californian Patrick Uretz, a Team USPA and USA Team member and a 4 goal player, and Matthew Walker, who is returning to the sport after a four-year absence. Walker, a 3 goal player before his departure, returns with 2 goal status.

In addition to the Summerland Winery Lisle Nixon Tournament, the U.S. Polo Assn. quartet will battle in the Ramsey Asphalt Pope Challenge starting on May 19, with the final scheduled for May 28.

These tournaments launch another exhilarating summer of competition and special events at one of the most prestigious equestrian venues on the West Coast.

The Santa Barbara Polo Club season includes the 12 Goal Series (May and June), followed by the thrilling 16 Goal Series (high goal, July and August). The season will close out with the 8 Goal Series (September and October). In addition, the Club will host a series of Youth Polo Tournaments throughout the summer, which promote the sport to all ages and levels. The Club will also debut a variety of new events and gatherings throughout the season, offering fun for the entire community.

“We’re looking forward to another outstanding season of polo in paradise,” said David Sigman, General Manager of the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club. “In addition to the exciting tournaments this season, we’re pleased to launch new programming that offers more than ever to enhance our guests’ experiences at the Club.”

About the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet ClubThe Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club is the premier destination for polo on the West Coast. Located on the beautiful American Riviera, the Club offers three high goal fields, a Polo School, boarding facilities, polo lessons and country club amenities, including eight tennis courts and a fitness facility, all alongside the Pacific Ocean. The 2017 season opened May 5th and runs through the first week of October. For more information about the Club and to purchase tickets please visit www.sbpolo.com.