Los Banditos Makes Statement in Jason 12

The Mack and Madelyn Jason 12 goal final came down to two teams which arrived based on the fact that they prevailed in a four team shoot-out after bracket play. On the one side Ron Mathison's Highwood group and on the other Dave Dollinger and his Los Banditos quartet.As it turned out, the only thing close regarding the teams - at least on this occasion - was the tie after the preliminaries and the fact that they arrived intact after the free throw competition.From the outset, it was apparent that the day belonged to the bad guys as Jake Devane - literally brought out of pasture to fill in for the unavailable Chad Bowman - scored quickly to give Dollinger and Co. an early lead of one. Marcello Abbiati got that back for Highwood, but the early pressure belonged to Los Banditos as Mariano Fassetta converted a penalty two and Jesse Bray counted a field goal and the first ended with the outlaws ahead by a pair at 3 - 1.The second was rather quiet with only one goal scored - that being a well thought out strike by Mathison after a goal mouth scramble. That brought Highwood to within one going to the third.If the second was quiet, the third was loud - loud to favor Los Banditos as every player on the team counting at least one time. Dollinger, Bray, Fassetta, and Devane each scored a field goal and Bray added an open goal award. The explosion gave the bad guys a lead of six at the half by a count of 8 - 2.Highwood grabbed one early in the fourth as Jake Stimmel converted a penalty three, but the outlaws got that back as Fassetta scored his third from the field. A Santiago Trotz penalty four brought Mathison and Co. back again, but Devane got that back with his second of the afternoon. Mathison scored his second of the game which seemed to lift Highwood as sustained pressure gave Stimmel another open goal opportunity and the lead had been reduced to four at 10 - 6 to end the period.The bad guys continued to roll in the fifth as Dollinger and Fassetta scored to lead again by six. Stimmel counted from the field and on another penalty two but it was very apparent that this was Dolliger's day with the count at 12 - 8 with just the final chukker to play.With Los Banditos in an easy cruise mode, Trotz scored another penalty four that would be the only goal of the period and the final score was 12 - 9 in favor of Los Banditos. Not only did Dollinger's gang win the Jason Memorial but his band of outlaws served notice that they are for real and will be contenders for the month.Fassetta was named the MVP and Abbiati's mare Nona (fifth) was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.2014 Mack and Madelyn Jason 12 GoalLos Banditos 12 - Dave Dollinger 1, Mariano Fassetta 6, Jesse Bray 5, Jake Devane 1.Highwood 12 - Ron Mathison, Marcello Abbiati 5, Santiago Trotz 5, Jake Stimmel 2.Tony Gregg      

6 Goal Jason Memorial Stays In the Family

Since the inception of the Jason Memorial Tournament - initially to honor the memory of Madelyn Jason and now honoring Mack Jason as well - and first played for at Eldorado in 2011, daughter Lyn Cobb's Coldwell Banker Menlo polo team has played in every final and has won the trophy twice. Cobb along with daughter Madelyn won in the first year and Cobb herself grabbed the spoils one year ago. In this year of 2014, it would be up to Madelyn Cobb to uphold the family prestige.The final would be contested by Coldwell Banker Menlo and recent foe, Krista Bonaguidi's Hanalei Bay - the third such showdown of these teams in as many tournaments. This final would, in fact, be the rubber match as each had won before.The first period started rather slowly as neither team was able to do much in terms of offence. The only goal of the opener turned out to be the highlight of chukker as Tony Uretz snuck in behing the Coldwell defense and grabbed a perect pass from Jesse Bray and scored a beauty to end the period with the surfers up by one at 1 - 0.Cobb and Co. came back in the second as Peter Blake got free to score off a perfect set-up from Jared Sheldon to tie and later on Sheldon converted a penalty three to lead by one. Bray counted his own number three and the second ended in a tie at two.Sheldon - once again playing his rather elusive and energetic  style - was pretty much unstoppable in the third as he counted twice from the field to go to the half with a lead of two at 4 - 2.The real estate people kept the pressure going early in the fourth as Sheldon again struck from the field and the lead became three. Remy Muller grabed his first goal of the game to bring the Bonaguidi pack to within a pair at 5 - 3 going to the fifth.Hanalei Bay turned things around in that fifth frame and absolutely destroyed the Cobb group as Uretz played a career chukker to score three times. With another from Muller and Coldwell Banker unable to do anything the count was 7 - 5 in favor of Hanalei Bay with one to go.Going to the sixth, many thought the Bonaguidi foursome had the trophy. Many that is, except the quartet wearing the shirts of Coldwell Banker Menlo. After all, they had been here before - just two weeks prior. With strong defensive play from Gregorio Mariscal and Cobb running the ball at the front and providing interference when needed, Sheldon scored quickly and Blake absolutely exploded to count back to back goals and real estate was alive and well. With the beach of Hanalei Bay now closed down, the Mack and Madelyn Jason Memorial Trophy was, once again, in the possession of the Coldwell Banker Menlo Real Estate Group by a final count of 8 - 7. And Madelyn Cobb had upheld the family tradition.Blake - because of his ability to think quickly and react correctly - was selected as the MVP and the Uretz family mare Racey, played by Uretz in the fifth chukker, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.2014 Mack and Madelyn Jason MemorialColdwell Banker Menlo 6 - Madelyn Cobb, Jared Sheldon 3, Peter Blake 2, Gregorio Mariscal 1.Hanalei Bay 6 - Krista Bonaguidi -1, Jesse Bray 4, Remy Muller 2, Tony Uretz 1.Tony Gregg   

Bobcat/Melody Ranch Runs to Trione Senior's Win

The 33rd renewal of the Trione Vineyards Senior's Tournament  turned out to be the proverbial walk in the park for the Bob Edmundson and Paul von Gontard sponsored Bobcat/Melody Ranch polo team.To earn the right to play in the Sunday final, the eventual champions defeated the defending champion Buffalo foursome as Shanghai was taking care of Hacienda de las Trampas during play on Saturday.The concluding game saw Bobcat/Melody Ranch prevail in a rather one-sided contest by stopping Shanghai by a score of 8 - 2.Buffalos defeated Hacienda de las Trampas in the consolation final.Craig Ramsby was honored as the MVP and Mora, owned and played by Gina Padia, was selected as the Best Playing Pony.2014 Trione Vineyards Senior's TournamentBobcat/Melody Ranch - Bob Edmundson, Craig Ramsby, Jenny Phipps, Bonnie Corner.Shanghai - Steven Armour, Gina Padia, Scott Walker, Mike Jordan.Buffalos - Ross Adam, Glen Hart, Lee Neilson, Cameron Diggon.Hacienda de las Trampas - Mike Ward, Leigh Brecheen, George Conkwright, Armondo Gonzalez.Tony Gregg

Coldwell Banker Wins February 6 Goal Tournament

Like the 12 Goal February Tournament final, the 6 Goal closer was a contest between teams that met before and while revenge may be a strong word, Madelyn Cobb and her Coldwell Banker Menlo foursome most certainly wanted to turn the table on Krista Bonaguidi and Hanalei Bay after losing to the surfers in the Beal Cup just two weeks earlier - and they did exactly that with an impressive 8 - 7 victory.To that avail, the first started well for Cobb and her salesmen as Peter Blake struck quickly to get an early lead - something they didn't have in the Beal Cup final. That advantage vanished quickly however as Hanalei Bay came back with strength as Remy Muller scored to tie the game. Coldwell Banker responded with strength of their own and intense pressure yielded a penalty two conversion by Jared Sheldon and the first ended with the real estate group up by one at 2 - 1.The second period was, very simply put, fast with many opportunities that did not translate into goals. Coldwell Banker had chances as did Hanalei Bay but the only counters of the stanza came from the mallet of Jesse Bray with a pair from the field and the third would start with the Bonaguidi pack up by one at 3 - 2.The speed continued into that third as both teams were able to garner more opportunities that, once again, didn't end in goals - in other words, extremely good offence was stopped by hard running defense that stood up to the task. However, Gregorio Mariscal, having turned play around many times, was able to score on a spectacular effort that would tie the game at three going to the half.If it was possible, the fourth chukker was probably faster than the third and the surfers were electric as Bray counted two to go up by two before Mariscal, on an extremely heady turn-over from inside 60 yards brought the sales people within one. Bray, on an impressive and dominating run, put Hanalei Bay back into the lead by a pair and the 'running' fourth was over with the Hawaiians leading 6 - 4.The fifth period again featured very good and very fast polo as Coldwell Banker pulled even with Sheldon scoring twice (1 penalty two) to get even again. Hanalei Bay got the lead back with Bray counting a penalty two from 15 yards and the surfers were in front again, but only by one at 7 - 6.With 7:30 left in regulation, it was time for Cobb and Co. to make a big sale if they were to turn things around in this February final - and turn around they did as Cobb snuck in behind the defense and grabbed a perfect pass with 120 yards to go and ran it perfectly to tie the game. Not only did the play even things up, it was a great example of how to play the one position - stay up, get open, and don't come back in looking for the ball. With real estate now doing well, Sheldon grabbed another one on another long and decisive run and the lead was now one for Coldwell Banker - their first lead since the second period. As it turned out, it was the best time to lead  as the clock ran out and it was over - with Cobb and her group victorious and in possession of the Richard Roenisch Bronzes.By playing an exceptionally strong game at back and allowing himself to jump to the front when needed, Mariscal earned MVP honors, and Diego Andrade's mare Madonna, played by Sheldon in the final chukker was selected as the Best Playing Pony.Cheryl Shindel was chosen as the Best Playing Sponsor of the February 6 Goal Tournament.February 6 Goal TournamentColdwell Banker Menlo 6 - Madelyn Cobb, Jared Sheldon 3, Peter Blake 2, Gregorio Mariscal 1.Hanalei Bay 6 - Krista Bonaguidi -1, Jesse Bray 4, Remy Muller 2, TonyUretz 1.Tony Gregg   

Antelope Wins Rematch in February 12 Goal Final

The final game of the February Tournament, played in front of another huge crowd, was a rematch of the Beal Cup final - Geoff Palmer's Antelope and John Rooney's Northern Blizzard. While the final two weeks ago was a close game with several lead changes and Rooney's group coming away with a 9 - 7 victory, this one was not as Antelope overpowered Northern Blizzard throughout to come away with a rather lopsided 12 - 8 win.It was apparent from the start that Antelope's quarterback, Santiago Trotz, had prepared well as he sent Palmer - from the back - running at the start and set him up with a perfect pass that the Pronghorn patron took 130 yards to score and lead very early. Trotz then converted a penalty four opportunity and the first was over with Antelope up by a pair - a lead they would not relinquish.The second didn't start any better for the Canadian contingent as Antelope pressure was rewarded with a penalty two counter by Palmer and the lead was now three. Rooney, with a very heads up and aggressive play in the Pronghorn goal mouth got the first goal for Northern Blizzard and Juan Curbelo made it two with a field goal to end the second and the Northerners appeared to be back in it - trailing by just one at 3 - 2.However, any thought that Rooney and Co. were actually in it was quickly dispelled in the third as Antelope exploded and scored five in a row - Jared Sheldon with a pair of open goal conversions, Jesse Bray with two from the field, and Trotz with one -  before Joe Henderson was able to count one for Northern Blizzard. The half was over and Antelope lead 8 - 3.Antelope held the five goal advantage in the fourth as Bray and Trotz scored one each with a reply of two from the North as Curbelo and Tim Rudy counted one apiece. Going to the fifth it was 10 - 5 in favor of the Pronghorns.The penultimate chukker was pretty much a copy of the fourth with Antelope holding their advantage as each team, once again, scored twice. Trotz from the field and a Palmer free throw for the leaders while Rudy grabbed a penalty three and a strike from the field in reply. With one to go, it was 12 - 7 Antelope.Rooney grabbed his second of the day early in the final to narrow the gap to four and that would be it as Antelope completely dominated and came away with the Rich Roenisch Bronzes - most certainly a much different result than their first meeting.Because of his alert and simply overpowering play, Bray was chosen as the MVP and Trotz's fifth period horse, Hector, was awared the cooler as the Best Playing Pony.Jenny Luttrell-Benardoni from Cotterel Farms was selected as the Most Valuable Sponsor for the tournament.February 12 Goal Tournament 2014Antelope 12 - Geoff Palmer, Santiago Trotz 5, Jesse Bray 4, Jared Sheldon 3.Northern Blizzard - John Rooney 1, Joe Henderson 4, Juan Curbelo 4, Tim Rudy 3.Tony Gregg  

Hanalei Bay Hangs On to Win Beal 6 Goal

When one thinks of Hanalei Bay, the thought of surfing would most certainly come to mind. You know, hanging ten and all that stuff. However, in the Carlton and Keleen Beal 6 Goal Cup final, hanging ten turned out to be the furthest thing from Krista Bonaguidi and her surfers' minds. After an exceptionally strong start, the second half was all about hanging on and just staying on the board - which they did (barely) to defeat Madelyn Cobb and Coldwell Banker Menlo by a final score of 9 - 8.The first period turned out to be rather benign with both teams having opportunities with neither able to capitalize. The only goal of the opener came from a penalty two conversion by Remy Muller and the chukker ended with the surfers leading by one.Hanalei Bay came out for the second and appeared to be much better prepared than Coldwell Banker as they dominated throughout. Counters from the field by Jesse Bray and Tony Uretz put the Hawaiians up by three with the real estate group not yet on the board.The domination that was Hanalei Bay continued in the third as they carried the play and scored on another penalty two (by Muller) and a field goal by Bray to give the surfers a lead of five goals. The Cobb Team was able to finally muster some offence that was rewarded as Sheldon was able to convert an open goal opportunity to narrow the gap to four. However, Muller scored his first from the field and the lead was once again five and it appeared that the Bonaguidi pack were going to win easily. Wasn't to be the case though as Peter Blake scored with 18 seconds left on the clock and the difference was now 'only' four goals at 6 - 2.Blake's goal - and most likely a stern 'wake-up' call during the break - most certainly set the tone for the early part of the fourth period as Coldwell Banker played the kind of polo that got them to the final. With Hanalei Bay able to do nothing, Cobb's group were now selling real estate in a big way as Blake struck for two more - one a superb deflection on a penalty four going wide - and Sheldon grabbed one to narrow the gap to just a goal at 6 - 5. However, the surfers were able to recover as Bray and Muller scored one each and the fourth ended with Hanalei Bay leading by three at 8 - 5.The scoring in the fifth was even at one as Blake counted for the Cobb Team and Muller scored his fifth for the Hawaiians. But while the scoring was even, Coldwell Banker carried the play but couldn't finish opportunities and it would ultimately finish them off as the chukker ended with Hanalei Bay leading by three at 9 - 6.The sixth started with Coldwell Banker, once again, playing 'their game' of fast and furious domination and the surfers were now trying to simply hang on. Sheldon was now playing his style of polo - quick and elusive - and he scored twice to narrow the gap to just one. With less than a minute left, and Hanalei Bay about to fall into the surf, it looked like the sales people were going to force overtime. Didn't happen as an unkind bounce ended their hope and Bonaguidi captured her second championship in two weeks.Bray earned MVP honors and Cobb, based on her strong play in the front, was selected as the Most Valuable Sponsor of the entire Beal Cup 6 Goal.Carlton and Keleen Beal Cup 2014 - 6 GoalHanalei Bay 6 - Krista Bonaguidi -1, Jesse Bray 4, Remy Muller 2, Tony Uretz 1.Coldwell Banker Menlo 6 - Madelyn Cobb, Jared Sheldon 3, Peter Blake 2, Gregorio Mariscal 1.Tony Gregg 

Winter Arrives During Beal 12 Goal Final

For much of the new year of 2014, a good part of the country had been subjected to a rather severe onslaught of winter. At the same time, Southern California had been the very balmy exception - until Sunday as it turned out, as winter arrived in a big way with a Northern Blizzard blowing in to win the Carlton and Keleen 12 Goal Beal Cup. The Northern Blizzard, of course, was Calgary's John Rooney and his Northern Blizzard polo team who covered Geoff Palmer's Antelope foursome by a final count of 9 - 7.At the outset, it seemed as if the weather was going to remain the same as a very aggressive Geoff Palmer grabbed a pass from Santiago Trotz and made a nice run to score in the early going to take a lead of one. However, the cool wind from the north started to become a factor as Joe Henderson and Tim Rudy scored from the field and Juan Curbelo added an open goal conversion and the first ended with the Rooney group leading by two at 3 - 1.The Pronghorns warmed up in the second as Jared Sheldon counted one from the field and Trotz absolutely pounded a penalty four to tie the count at three. Rooney, perhaps used to the cold weather, turned the thermostat down with an exceptional steal to score late and the second ended with the cool wind from Canada leading 4 - 3.The third got warmer however, as Antelope came out and dominated the period with the elusive Sheldon scoring twice from the field and Palmer converting an open goal award and Palmer and Co. lead by three at 6 - 4.The north wind picked up in the fourth as the Rooney group applied pressure and were rewarded with a number four conversion by Curbelo and an open goal counter by Rudy. With less than a minute to go, it appeared that the chukker would end with the score tied. Didn't happen as Sheldon got loose near the Canadian goal and pounded a deep neck shot from far right - the announcer's 'shot of the day' - and it was 7 - 6 Antelope going to the fifth.As it turned out, that was it for the Pronghorns as the snow started to fall  in the penultimate stanza with Northern Blizzard completely shutting down Antelope while Rudy converted a penalty two to tie the count at seven.The snow stated to pile up in the sixth as Henderson converted a penalty two and Curbelo struck from the field. When it was over, it was winter in Southern California as Northern Blizzard covered Antelope and took the Beal Cup.Curbelo was selected as the Most Valuable Player in the final and Palmer was honored as the Most Valuable Sponsor in the Beal Tournament.2014 Carlton and Keleen 12 Goal Beal CupNorthern Blizzard 12 - John Rooney 1, Joe Henderson 4, Juan Curbelo 4, Tim Rudy 3.Antelope 12 - Geoff Palmer, Santiago Trotz 5, Jesse Bray 4, Jared Sheldon 3.Tony Gregg

For The Roenisch Bronzes in January - Different Winners

The second January Tournament Finals - for the Rich Roenisch Bronzes -  featured different winners on both levels.The 6 goal championship saw Jenny Luttrell-Benardoni and her Cotterel Farms quartet (Luttrell-Benardoni, Francisco Benardoni 1, Dan Walker 2, and Ignacio Saracco 3) return to a final for the second time in the opening month, but this time they came back as winners and not the runners-up. Cheryl Schindel and Brooke Faber's Centurion foursome (Schindel, Faber -1, Luis Saracco 4, and Tim Rudy 3) coming out of bracket play undefeated, due to excellent play, would supply the opposition but on this day Luttrell and Co. were far and away the better team and cruised to a victory by a score of 8 - 4.The first started very slowly with no scoring, but Cotterel scored three times in the second to just one for the Centurions and added one in the third to lead 4 - 1 at the half.Cotterel counted two more in the fourth to just one again for the Romans and added a pair in the fifth and went to the final period leading by six at 8 - 2.The Centurions scored twice in the sixth but it would not be enough and the Luttrell- Benardoni farmhands took home the very prized awards.Walker was the high scorer for the winners with three (1 foul) and Luis Saracco lead all scorers with all four of his team's goals.Ignacio Saracco was selected as the MVP and his mare, Perinola was chosen as the best playing pony. The 12 Goal final was a rematch of the first January final with Ron Bonaguidi's Mr. Hanalei Bay (Bonaguidi, Mariano Fassetta 6, Juan Curbello 4, and Remy Muller 2) facing Krista Bonaguidi and her Mrs. Hanalei Bay (Bonaguidi -1, Joe Henderson 4, Jason Crowder 6, and Ashton Wolf 3).From the outset, it was obvious that Mrs. and Co. were ready to play polo - unlike the previous final where they were never really in it - as Jason Crowder took the ball from the opening throw-in and scored in less than 25 seconds to take a lead of one which held up and the first ended with Mrs. up by that one at 1 - 0.The second period was all Mrs. with three counters to none for Mr. and the score was 4 - 0 going to the third.Each counted one in the third and the half ended with Krista leading by a count of 5 - 1.With ten minutes to think things over, Mr. and his Company appeared ready to play and came out very strong in the fourth to score a pair of unanswered counters and the period ended with Mrs. leading by just two at 5 - 3.Goals were again traded in the fifth and the lead remained two going to the final chukker at 6 - 4.The sixth started as did the fourth for Mr. Hanalei Bay as they were able to tie the count at six with about 1:45 left to go and it appeared that overtime might be necessary. Wasn't to be however, as Crowder jumped on an errant pass and ran in the winner and Krista's Mrs. Hanalei Bay captured the January League Title along with the Roenisch Bronzes by a count of 7 - 6.With his explosive and very involved play, Crowder, with four goals (1 foul), was the obvious choice as the MVP and Fassetta's outstanding mare, Chikita, grabbed Best Playing Pony honors.Tony Gregg    

Mr. Hanalei Bay and Blazers Win Kerley Honors

With outstanding crowds watching - reminiscent of mid-March - on both Opening Day, January 5 and the following Final's Sunday, Ron Bonaguidi's Mr. Hanalei Bay (12 Goal) and Pat Powell's Blazers (6 Goal) grabbed the spoils in the 2014 Wendell Kerley Memorial Tournament.The 12 Goal final was indeed interesting with Ron Bonaguidi's Mr. Hanalei Bay riding the waves against Krista Bonaguidi's Mrs. Hanalei Bay - yup, husband vs. wife.Before the start, many thought that Mr. might lay back and  concede a win, and the prized Chris Kerley spurs would go to 'the Mrs.' -  in the interest of being a good husband. Not long after the start, it was very apparent that was not going to be the case - not even close - as the ultra competitive Mr. (0) along with Marianno Fassetta (6), Juan Curbelo (4), and Remy Muller (2) jumped out to an early first period lead of 4 - 1 over Mrs. (-1) who lined up with Joe Henderson (4), Jason Crowder (6), and Ashton Wolf (3). In fact, the first goal came immediately after the first throw-in.The second wasn't much better for the marriage as the lead was increased to four goals with the second ending at 6 - 2.Both teams scored twice in the third and the half ended with Ron leading Krista by, once again, four goals. The count was 8 - 4.Any thought - and there was - that anyone might have had about a reconciliation in the fourth period vanished as Fassetta and Curbelo simply destroyed anything that Krista's group tried to muster and the chukker ended and the lead was now five goals at 10 - 5.Scoring was once again even in the fifth - at one each - and the lead remained five going to the final.In the sixth and with the victory in hand, after another quick counter to lead by six, Mr. and his surfers pretty much sat on their boards and Mrs. was able to score three - with Krista counting a pair. But it was too late as the game ended with a final score of 12 - 9 and Mr. Hanalei Bay would now ride the waves with brand new Kerley spurs.Fassetta was the high scorer on the day with nine goals ( 1 foul, #4).)In the 6 Goal, the Blazers lined up against Jenny Luttrell-Benardoni and her Cotterel Farms organization. For Powell, unable to play due to a concussion suffered the day before,  Kyle Fargey (3) would lead along with Kimo Huddleston (2), Malia McCoy (.5), and Nicolas Llambias (0) (replacing Powell). Cotterel saddled up with Luttrell-Benardoni (0), Francisco Benardoni (1), Danny Walker (2), and Ignacio Saracco (3).Taking a handicap award of one-half at the start, the Blazers played as named in the first period and took a lead of 1.5 to nil to the second.Cotterel came back in the second to count twice to one for the Blazers and the second ended with Powell's team leading by the handicap at 2.5 - 2.The Blazers shut out Cotterel in the third and fourth stanzas to lead 4.5 - 2 at halftime and 5.5 - 2 going to the fifth.Cotterel got organized in the penultimate frame and scored twice early on to make it interesting but Powell's crew got one back to snuff the comeback and it was 6.5 - 4 with one to go.The sixth was pretty much all Blazers as they counted four before a reply from Cotterel and the Wendell Kerley Memorial 6 goal awards went to the Blazers by a score of 10.5 - 5.Fargey led all scorers with six goals (2 fouls, # 2's).Chris Kerley, the maker of the coveted spurs, was on hand to present the awards for both games, along with Wendell Kerley's grandchildren, Ryan and Hope Kerley.Tony Gregg  

The Eldorado Pro Pool is Underway

The Eldorado Pro Pool - envisioned and started by Polo Manager Graham Bray - started on the first weekend of January play, with games on Saturday and Sunday. The first game was played on the Cantina field for the lunch crowd and featured professional players John Eicher at three goals and four goal Joe Henderson.The intent of the play is not for the professionals to play to win the game for the players, but for them to help the players to win for themselves in a tournament format. It is also worth noting that the Eldorado Pro Pool fee includes the professional and the teams are put together by polo club management.With Eicher and Henderson directing traffic, the pool members were responsible for 'getting it done' on their own and it was up to them to make the plays for themselves. If you want to win - you have to make it happen. The professionals will help with direction and the odd set-up, but it's pretty much up to you - and you will learn how to play polo.With the success of the first weekend, the second weekend once again featured Eicher with four goal Mattthew Gonzales stepping in for Henderson. Eicher was joined by Virgil Kyle, Ryan Robertson, and Susan Adams. Jennifer Alexy, James Kidd, and Mike Ward saddled up with the always entertaining Gonzales.The play during the second series was noticeably improved over the first weekend as the players not only were hitting the ball with more authority, but their defensive play was much better. Players who couldn't, or wouldn't hook during the first weekend were able to make that defensive play because they had been shown how to place themselves correctly in order to do so. It was, as well, very obvious that the participants were starting to 'read' plays because of the  input of the 'mentors'. "If you want the ball - get to a spot where I can hit it to you".During the second series, with Sunday's contest back at the Cantina for breakfast in an announced game, Gonzales and crew - playing as Hacienda de Trampas - were victorious over Eicher and his OC Polo foursome, by a two game total count of 10 - 7.The Pro Pool has started, and early participants not only have learned, but they have done so during tournament play because they played with professionals who are there to improve their polo - and have fun while doing it. If you're going to travel to the Desert for just a weekend or two and want to play some tournament polo give Eldorado some thought. In order to facilitate the experience please sign up by noon on Thursday (760) 342 2223.Tony Gregg  

Cotterel Farms Wins World Gym Tournament

The 24th annual World Gym 4 Goal Tournament, sponsored by Mike Uretz and the Uretz Family, came down to a final of two somewhat different polo teams. With World Gym (Claudia Uretz, Patrick Uretz, Hank Uretz, and Cacho Galindo) and Cotterel Farms (Jenny Luttrell-Benardoni, Jennifer Alexy, Ruben Coscia, and Andrea Brereton) advancing to the Sunday final, in front of a very enthusiastic Cantina lunch crowd, it appeared to most that the fitness group would have a distinct edge - based on the belief that youngsters Patrick Uretz and Galindo could, together, easily handle the somewhat older but experienced Coscia.At first it appeared that might be the case as Hank Uretz  scored right off the opening throw-in to lead with less than 40 seconds gone. Coscia was able to score toward the middle of the period, but Patrick Uretz scored on a long run to go to the second with a lead of one at 2 - 1.World Gym continued to impress as Galindo scored early in chukker number two and it most certainly appeared that the predictions of a Uretz  win were going to be supported. Coscia, however was just getting started as he, along with three very aggressive ladies, started to apply pressure that resulted in an open goal conversion by Lutterell-Benardoni that brought the deficit to just one. Coscia scored his second shorly after that and the game was tied at three going to the half - and World Gym was closed for the afternoon.With very timely offensive help from Luttrell-Benardoni and Alexy, and extremely persistent and effective defensive work by Brereton, Coscia went to work and absolutely dominated chukker number three as he scord three goals on what turned out to be the Best Playing Pony, Benito. As a result, Cotterel led by three at 6 - 3.While World Gym had opportunities in the fourth, they could not convert and Coscia took advantage of every mistake. Luttrell-Benardoni converted her second open goal conversion to complete the scoring and Cotterell Farms had won the 2013 World Gym Tournament by a count of 7 - 3.As well as owning and playing Benito, Coscia was also named the Most Valuable Player. Tony Gregg 

Opening Day Sunday Jan 5

 Eldorado Polo Club is pleased to announce the launch of yet another exciting season of world class polo right here in the Coachella Valley. For over 50 years players from all over the world and across North America have gathered in the Desert to compete in one of the most thrilling horse sports on the planet, and this season will be no exception.Opening Day at Eldorado Polo Club is Sunday, January 5 and will feature polo matches at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. The entrance to the club is at 50950 Madison St in Indio between Avenue 50 and 52, the public is welcome to attend and admission is free!Sunday Polo is a must do activity during the winter months in the Desert. Guests can enjoy the full service Club House restaurant or pull up their vehicle on the elevated berm and tailgate in style. In addition to polo, guests can experience wine tasting and be able to purchase the fine cigars of Payne Mason. Be sure not to miss the famous halftime divot stomp of the 2pm match and enjoy a complimentary glass of Teqava Sparkling Tequila. Opening Day Club House Restaurant reservations can be made at (760)-831-POLO.

Sunday Polo at the Club House

The Eldorado Club House is the best place to experience Sunday polo in style - every Sunday at 12pm and 2pm.A full service menu and bar are offered, and seating is available for parties from 2 to 400. Reservations are recommended for Sunday seating, please call the Club House reservation hotline to reserve seating:(760)-831-POLO (7656)Sunday Polo at the Club House continues every Sunday, January through  March 30. Reservations fill up quickly, so make your advanced reservation today!

Sunday Tailgating

If you want to enjoy the polo sidelines in casual comfort, Sunday tailgating is right for you! Bring your friends, family, lawn-chairs, pets (on leashes!), a picnic, and set up your own perfect polo event. Take-away food and beverage services are also offered in the Club House Courtyard.Parking and tailgating is totally free and everyone is welcome!Tailgating areas to the north and south of the Club House are marked and we encourage you to arrive early for the games every Sunday at 12pm and 2pm.

Weekend Polo on the Patio

Join us on the Cantina patio at Eldorado to enjoy games every Saturday at 12pm and Sunday at 10am. Seating is first-come, first-serve, so be sure to arrive early!You can't get any closer than this to all of the play by play action!Weekend Polo on the Patio kicks off on Saturday, December 28th and continues through Sunday, March 30th.Join us at Eldorado Polo Club this season for the most competitive and thrilling polo in the Desert. If you have never experienced a polo match before, we guarantee you will be hooked. It is a great outing with friends and family, so come along and visit us at the Eldorado Polo Club.For more information about visiting Eldorado Polo Club, visit eldoradopoloclub.com,or call (760)-342-2223.

Eldorado Sunday Polo Kicks Off January 5!

 Join us at Eldorado Polo Club this season for the most competitive and thrilling polo in the Desert. If you have never experienced a polo match before we guarantee you will be hooked. It is a great outing with friends and family, so come along and visit us at the Eldorado Polo Club.We are excited to once again offer 10-12 Goal, 4-6 Goal and Pro Pool leagues along with Pee Wee Polo for future polo stars to develop their skills. For those who have seen polo and thought that you may like to try your hand at it, we have the Polo & Riding Academy equipped with safe horses and all of the gear to get you started. There is something for everyone at Eldorado Polo Club.

Weekend Polo on the Patio

Join us on the Cantina patio  Eldorado to enjoy games every Saturday at 12pm and Sunday at 10am. Seating is first-come, first-serve, so be sure to arrive early!Weekend Polo on the Patio kicks off on Saturday, December 28th and continues through Sunday, March 30th.

Sunday Polo at the Club House

The Eldorado Club House is the best place to experience Sunday polo in style - every Sunday at 12pm and 2pm.A full service menu and bar are offered, and seating is available for parties from 2 to 400. Reservations are recommended for Sunday seating, please call the Club House reservation hotline to reserve seating:(760)-831-POLO (7656)Opening Day at the Club House takes place on Sunday, January 5th and continues every Sunday through  March 30.

Sunday Tailgating

If you want to enjoy the polo sidelines in casual comfort, Sunday tailgating is right for you!Bring your friends, family, lawn-chairs, pets (on leashes!), a picnic, and set up your own perfect polo event. Take-away food and beverage services are also offered in the Club House Courtyard.Tailgating areas to the north and south of the Club House are marked and we encourage you to arrive early for the games every Sunday at 12pm and 2pm.Opening Day at the Club House takes place on Sunday, January 5th and continues every Sunday through March 30.For more information about visiting Eldorado Polo Club, visit eldoradopoloclub.com, or call (760)-342-2223.

Coldwell Banker Menlo Brings Back Governor's Cup

The Pacific Coast Governor's Cup has returned to the United States. With the coveted trophy travelling to Canada for the past three years, courtesy Reg Whyte in 2010, Pat Powell in 2011, and Cam Clark just one year ago, Whyte and his (this time) Thermal polo team wanted to keep it in the 'frozen white north'. Having had a very successful winter season, it seemed very plausible that Whyte and his Cochrane, Alberta farmhands, Fergus Gould, Nicolas Maciel, and Emma Stachowicz could do just that.However, Madelyn Cobb knows a few things about farming as well and the recent Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Animal Science graduate had ideas of her own as she assembled an extremely talented Coldwell Banker Menlo group - Joseph Stuart, Jared Sheldon, and Conrad Kissling - to not only win the tournament, but bring the trophy back to the south country.As it turned out, the final came down to the pair described above - Whyte's Thermal vs Cobb's Coldwell Banker Menlo - in an Easter Sunday showdown.In front of a full clubhouse, a jammed berm, and a full on party on the east side on a perfect afternoon for polo, Thermal started quickly and as a result of early pressure, Maciel converted a penalty two from the spot to grab a lead of one. Coldwell Banker came back quickly with pressure of their own and Sheldon deflected a Stuart penalty attempt from 60 yards and it was tied, just like that, at one each. Thermal came back just as quickly however as Maciel converted his second open attempt of the day and the first was over with Whyte and his hired hands up by one at 2 - 1.It was obvious at the start of the second that the Cobb group remained focused on the mission as early pressure was rewarded as Sheldon converted a penalty two to tie things at two. Thermal didn't lay down and pushed back to be rewarded with another Maciel opportunity from 40 yards (converted) to, once again, lead by one. Maciel was able to score another (from the field) and Thermal was making hay. Stuart, however, was obviously not impressed as he absolutely pounded a penalty four to end the half with the Thermal lead, once again, just one at 4 - 3.With ten minutes to talk things over, it was extremely obvious that Coldwell Banker used that time very well, as they came out in the third period and absolutely controlled everything. Kissling scored on a tap-in after a remarkable 100 yard under the neck set-up from Stuart who then destroyed another penalty four, and Sheldon was unstoppable as he scored twice from the field and Cobb and Co.  now led for the first time in the game. Thermal got close with two more open goal conversions by Maciel but the third was over with a Coldwell Banker lead at 7 - 6.In spite of giving up the pair of free-throws toward the end of the third, the Cobb group didn't lose the momentum they had earlier as Stuart scored two more from the field and the lead was now three. Thermal got one more as Gould nailed a penalty six toward the end but that was it and Cobb and Coldwell Banker Menlo not only had won the 2013 Pacific Coast Governor's Cup, but they had reclaimed the trophy.Stuart, based on his very underrated ability and strength was the obvious choice as the MVP and Sheldon's mare Cheeky was selected as the Best Playing Pony.2013 Pacific Coast Governor's CupColdwell Banker Menlo (6) - Madelyn Cobb, Joseph Stuart 3, Jared Sheldon 3, Conrad Kissling.Thermal (6) - Reg Whyte, Emma Stachowicz -1, Fergus Gould 4, Nicolas Maciel 3.Tony Gregg 

In Close Game, Mansour Wins Skins Final by Wide Margin

Although the overall score is no indication, Ben Soleimani's Mansour polo team defeated Ron Mathison's Highwood group by a total count of $20,000 to $4,000 in the 2013 Polo Skins Game on an absolutely perfect Easter Sunday afternoon in sunny Southern California. While the game score favored Mansour by just one at 13 - 12, two carryover victories for the rug people created the very wide financial gap.Highwood entered the tournament with almost the same line up as 2012 - the winner of Mathison's second straight Skins title. The only change was inserting Jake Stimmel to replace Jared Sheldon, whose handicap was raised. However, the team that played Sunday was much different than the one that started the tournament in early March. Marcello Rodriguez-Abbiati and Santiago Trotz played the entire month, but Mathison fractured his right shoulder in game one - scoring twice after the injury - and Jake Stimmel was hurt in a fall in the semi-final. As a result, the Canadian entry for Sunday's final saw Scotty Cunningham and Doug Blumenthal step in to replace the injured players.Mansour was able to show up on Sunday with almost the same team that started in early February - Soleimani, Santiago Wulff, and Santiago Von Wernich, with the only change being Patrick Uretz coming in for Remy Muller for March - and were able to play the entire Skins tournament intact.Highwood started the first with a lightning like attack that saw Cunningham and Trotz score off the first two throw-ins. However, Wulff and Von Wernich responded with two quick counters of their own that tied the count at two. Cunningham grabbed another, but Soleimani ran one from 100 yards out and the first ended tied at three to create the first carryover of the afternoon.Playing for $8,000 in the second saw Mansour jump out to a lead of two as Wulff and Von Wernich each scored again. A single goal by Highwood's Trotz wasn't enough and the Soleimani salesmen took the money out of the second 'skin'.The momentum that Mansour owned in the second carried over into the third chukker as Wulff counted twice and Uretz and Von Wernich scored once each to just an open goal conversion by Trotz and the third money of $4,000 was Mansours. At the half it was Mansour $12,000 and Highwood $0.The strength that Mansour showed in the third was transferred to Highwood in the fourth as they responded in a large way. Trotz converted an open goal opportuity, scored two penalty fours, and along with one from Cunningham, scored from the field to lead by five. A single reply from Von Wernich was all that Mansour could muster and the $4,000 belonged to the Canadian team.After two explosive chukkers, the fifth was rather quiet with just a pair of goals scored. Wulff for Mansour and Trotz for Highwood which created a carryover to the sixth where they would play for, once again, $8,000.With a chance to win by a very large amout of cash, Mansour stormed out at the start of the final period as Wulff scored twice to lead early. Strong defensive play prevented Highwood from doing much to get even. Trotz scored another but that would be it and Soleimani and Co. had won the 19th annual contest by a staggering amount - in spite of the overall game count.Von Wernich was selected as the MVP and Wulff's mare, Ji Ji, was fitted with the Best Playing Pony blanket.2013 Polo Skins GameMansour (12) - Ben Soleimani, Santiago Wulff 5, Santiago Von Wernich 5, Patrick Uretz 2.Highwood (12) - Scotty Cunningham (replace inj. Ron Mathison), Doug Blumenthal (replace inj. Jake Stimmel) 2, Marcello Rodriquez-Abbiati 5, Santiago Trotz 5.Tony Gregg 

Coldwell Banker Menlo Triumphs in Jason Final

Lyn Cobb's Coldwell Banker Menlo polo team went into the championship game of the Mack and Madelyn Jason Memorial Tournament as the odds on favorite to get Cobb (Mack's and Madelyn's daughter) her second Jason Memorial victory at Eldorado. It made sense as they cruised through their bracket play undefeated, and gave the impression that it didn't really matter who they would face in the final.With the other bracket finishing up in a three-way tie for top spot, a shootout was necessary to decide an opponent for the Cobb sales people. With the shootout completed, Krista Bonaguidi's and Chris Collins' Hanalei Bay/Southwind emerged as the winners and therefore moved on to the final game.On a rather warm afternoon in the Coachella Valley, Coldwell Banker Menlo, as advertised, started quickly as Dayelle Fargey scored from the field and Jared Sheldon converted a penalty number three. Collins got one back for Hanalei Bay/Southwind to come within one but Joseph Stuart pounded a penalty six to take a lead of two goals to the second period at 3 - 1.Cobb's salesforce kept the pressure on in chukker number two as Sheldon converted a penalty two opportunity and Stuart struck from the field to lead by four after two (5 - 1).Bonaguidi, Collins and Co. were able to produce some pressure of their own in the first half of the third period as Bryan Middleton and Carlitos Galindo were able to score on open goal opportunities and the lead became just a pair. Unfazed, Stuart came back with a perfect neck-shot from 110 yards to score (the announcer's 'shot of the day') and Sheldon got his first from the field and the lead was once again four at 'halftime' (7 - 3).Collins grabbed his second of the day- a nifty near-side effort - that turned out to be the only counter of period number four and the Coldwell Banker Menlo lead was now three (7 - 4).Sheldon converted another open goal chance to grab a four goal lead but Middleton scored on two undefended chances of his own and the lead was now just two. Cobb scored the final goal of the game that gave her Coldwell Banker Menlo Team the victory by a score of 9 - 6. For Cobb, it was her second Mack and Madelyn Jason victory at Eldorado - the trophy is also awarded at the Menlo Circus Club during the summer season.Because of his influential and dominating play, Stuart was selected as the MVP and his mare, Shandyland, was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.2013 Mack and Madelyn Jason Memorial TournamentColdwell Banker Menlo (6) - Lyn Cobb -1, Joseph Stuart 3, Jared Sheldon 3, Dayelle Fargey 1.Hanalei Bay/Southwind (6) - Krista Bonaguidi -1, Chris Collins 1, Bryan Middleton 3, Carlitos Galindo 3.Tony Gregg 

Sofonio Polo Classic Starts March 12 Goal Action

With a well earned victory in the Sofonio Polo Classic, Ron Mathison and his Highwood polo team served notice that they will, once again, be a factor in the Skins Tournament.The Classic, sponsored by Dr. Mark Sofonio, Board  Certified Plastic Surgeon, saw the Mathison group go up against Chris Maloney and his Twin Palms foursome.Twin Palms grabbed an early lead of two in the first period, only to see Highwood come back and tie going to the second chukker.That second frame was all Twin Palms as they scored three unanswered goals to lead by three at 5 - 2 after two.Mathison and Co. got back into form during the third stanza as they outscored Maloney's crew 2 - 1 to produce a score of 6 - 4 at halftime.If the third period allowed Highwood to get back into form, the fourth and fifth allowed them to write a book about same as they dominated both and led by four going to the sixth (10 - 6). In fact, with one in the third chukker included, Highwood scored seven in a row.Twin Palms made it close in the final chukker as they scored three goals to come within one. The tying goal was not to be however, and Highwood captured the Sofonio Polo Classic by a count of 10 - 9.Scoring for the winners, Santiago Trotz had five (one foul - #4), Marcello Rodriquez - Abbiati counted two (one foul - #4), Mathison a pair, and Jake Stimmel grabbed one.Replying for Twin Palms, Graham Bray scored five goals, Gaston Von Wernich had three, and Mike Kerley struck once.2013 Sofonio Polo ClassicHighwood (12) - Ron Mathison, Marcello Rodriguez - Abbiati 5, Santigo Trotz 5, Jake Stimmel 2.Twin Palms (12) - Chris Maloney 1, Graham Bray 4, Gaston Von Wernich 5, Mike Kerley 2.Tony Gregg 

31st Annual Trione Vineyards Senior's Tournament

With the founder Henry Trione, as always, in attendance, the 31st annual Trione Vineyards Seniors Polo Tournament was played during the traditional mid-season break - this year on March 2nd & 3rd.With four teams entered, Sunday's final came down to a contest between Adam Ranch and Melody Ranch.To reach the final game, Adam Ranch defeated Washington Lettuce on Saturday and Melody Ranch was victorious over Shanghai.The final game, played on an absolutely perfect afternoon and announced by William Devane, saw Adam Ranch control from the outset and go on to well played victory to earn the prominent position on the presentation platform.2013 Trione Vineyards Senoir's Polo TournamentAdam Ranch - Ross Adam, Glen Hart, Cameron Diggon, Denny Geiler.Melody Ranch - Craig Ramsby, Murray Farmer, Will Waggner, George Conkwright, Susan Cooley.Washington Lettuce - George Dill, Larry Rudy, Joe Infanger, Kelly Armstrong.Shanghai - Steven Armour, Mike Ward, Don Pugh, Mike Jordan.Tony Gregg

WCT Western Women's Challenge

Once again, Eldorado was selected to be the host club for the WCT Western Women's Challenge Polo Tournament, played over three days from March 1 to March 3, 2013 comprising three Flights.The A Flight consisted of three teams - Prime Time, Cotterel Farms/Urban Dog, and Coldwell Banker Menlo, and was played over the three days as a round-robin with a 4 chukker 'game' each day.Friday saw Prime Time face-off against Cotterel/Urban Dog. Prime Time wasn't able to hang on to an early lead as Cotterel/Urban Dog came back to eventually win by a score of 4 - 2.Having not played on Friday, Coldwell Banker Menlo stepped on the field Saturday to face Prime Time. This test featured three lead changes and ultimately ended with a count of 3 - 3.With Prime Time now out of championship contention - but hanging on a hope of the runner-up spot - Sunday's 'game' would feature Cotterel/Urban Dog at 1 - 0 and 2 net goals going against Coldwell Banker Menlo at 1 - 0 and zero net goals. In other words, the former needed only to tie to win the championship, while Coldwell Banker Menlo would have to win in order to claim victory.In a very entertaining game that saw several lead changes, Coldwell Banker Menlo ultimately did claim a win by a score of 4 - 3 and therefore became the WCT Western Women's Challenge Champions.Dayelle Fargey was chosen as the MVP, Anne Evamy was voted as the most sportsmanlike, and Rio, owned by Jenny Lutterell and played by Caroline Anier was selected as the Best Playing Pony.WCT Western Women's Challenge - A FlightColdwell Banker Menlo (3) - Madelyn Cobb, Abby Riggs 1, Dayelle Fargey 1, Tiamo Hudspeth 1.Cotterel/Urban Dog (3) - Jenny Lutterell, Kim Garsed, Caroline Anier 2, Jessica Bailey 1.Prime Time (3) - Anne Evamy, Leigh Brecheen, Claudia Uretz, Sunny Hale 3.The B Flight saw six teams in competition and eventually came down to a final game between Barossa and Freedom Block For Horses. With no scoring in the first chukker, Freedom Block led 3 - 0 at halftime and ran away with a 5 - 2 win when it was over.Tania Paneno was picked as the MVP, Anita Wulff the most sportsmanlike, and Dayelle Fargey's Lemoncello was the Best Playing Pony. WCT Western Women's Challenge - B FlightFreedom Block For Horses (.5) - Tania Paneno -1, Jessica Bailey 1, Kate Weber .5, Cybele Jordan.Barossa (.5) - Katie Graham -1, Abby Riggs 1, Dayelle Fargey 1, Dani Rewitzer -.5.Cotterel Farms (1) - Jenny Lutterell, Jenny Phipps, Andrea Brereton -1, Caroline Anier 2.D C Bank (1) - Cathy Butler, Krissy Devane, Anita Wulff, Roxy Kefauver 1.Lucy Curci Cancer Center (1) - Susan Guggenheim, Sheryl Williams, Tiamo Hudspeth 1, Kerstie Allen.Rapid Release (-2) - Danielle Travis, Paige Beard,Emma Stachowicz -1, Becky Clark -1.C Flight was comprised of three teams in a round robin over two days where each team played each other team a total of four chukkers. After the second day, Ocean Mist prevailed as the victor, Deer Creek was second, and Ponytail Polo was the second runner-up.Megan Kozminski was selected as the MVP, Lynni Hutton was chosen as the most sportsman like player, and Paige Rutherford was voted as the most improved. Miami, owned by Ernie Ezcurra and played by April Malice became the Best Playing Pony.WCT Western Women's Challenge - C FlightOcean Mist - Megan Kozminski, Mary Masterson, Linda Drabova, Dana Bates.Deer Creek - Lynni Hutton, Paige Rutherford, Amelia Gilroy, Nancy Louie.Ponytail Polo - Alex Pool-Jeffre, Emma Tooth, April Malice, Sara Knudsen/Lacey Safonovs.Tony Gregg

Stormcat Runs To Victory In Beal 6 Goal

The 6 goal Carlton and Keleen Beal Memorial Cup turned out to be a test involving two rather different teams. On the one side, Reg Whyte and his Thermal bunch and on the other, Craig Steinke and Stormcat. For Whyte, it was his second Eldorado final in a row, and for Steinke, it was his first Eldorado final in many years. While Whyte went with the proven lineup - World Gym Winners - of foreman Fergus Gould, Nicolas Maciel (back after an injury), and Emma Stachowicz, Steinke saddled the rejuvenated Danny Juarez, his longtime rig hand Victor Soto, and newcomer Jacob Deutsch.Stormcat rushed out of the gate quickly as Juarez scored once and Soto added a pair to lead in the very early going. Maciel converted a penalty three for Thermal and the  first ended with the explorers ahead at 3 - 1.Whyte and Co. started to make some hay early in the second as Maciel baled another open goal opportunity and Gould scored one from the field to tie the count at three. However, Stormcat galloped ahead once more on counters from Juarez and Soto and the second ended with the Steike Group leading at 5 - 3.Stormcat led by three once again as Juarez converted a penalty two, but Maciel scored a field goal to help Thermal stay close at the 'half' with the count at 6 - 4.The fourth was all Thermal as Whtye's  'hands ran down the leader with another open goal counter from Maciel and another field goal from Gould who was now leading by example. With Stormcat now seemingly fading, Thermal was back in it tied at six.In the final frame, Juarez and Soto each scored from the field to again give the lead to Stormcat, this time by a pair. However, Thermal wasn't finished as continued pressure was rewarded with an impressive 60 yard free shot by Maciel that brought them within one. With less than a minute to go, Thermal needed a goal to tie and was willing to take a chance to make it happen. If you succeed and run the field you're a hero and if you get caught, you know that at least you tried. In taking the chance, Thermal gave up a penalty four opportunity to Juarez that he converted and Steinke and his Stormcat stable had won the 6 Goal Beal Memorial by a count of 9 - 7.Playing his best game of the season earned Soto MVP honors and Maciel's third chukker mare, India, owned by Gery Warner, was selected as the Best Playing Pony.2013 6 Goal Carlton and Keleen Beal Memorial CupStormcat (6) - Craig Steinke 1, Danny Juarez 3, Victor Soto 2, Jacob Deutsch.Thermal (6) - Reg Whyte, Fergus Gould 4, Nicolas Maciel 3, Emma Stachowicz -1, Miguel Gutierrez 3 (sub for Maciel).Tony Gregg