Los Banditos Steal 20th Annual Polo Skins Match

Dave Dollinger's Los Banditos polo team came into the 20th annual Skins Tournament -  fresh off their victory in the Jason Memorial - as the favorites and certainly appeared to be up to the task as they breezed through the qualifiers with a perfect record. Their opponent in the Sunday afternoon final would be another team with a perfect record out of the preliminaries - John Rooney and his Northern Blizzard invaders.The Bandit's lineup for the final - worth $5000 per chukker -  would be a little different as Craig Steinke suited up for the always busy Dollinger and Jake Devane would once again step in for the, once again, unavailable Chad Bowman. The strong duo of Mariano Fassetta and Jesse Bray filled out the card. The Rooney group would remain unchanged with Rooney, Joe Henderson, Juan Curbello, and Tim Rudy mounting up.The first $5000 period saw the Bandits jump out to a quick lead as Devane - much like his start in the Jason - grabbed a Fassetta pass at the initial throw-in and run easily to score. Fassetta himself scored a pair after that and the first 'skin' was in possession of Dollinger's bunch by a count of 3 - 0.The Bandits kept the pressure on in the early part of the second as Bray counted his first of the afternoon. Northern Blizzard, however, recovered as Henderson and Curbelo counted markers of their own and the Rooney group took the second award with a 2 - 1 'victory'.After two very fast chukkers, the third slowed down considerably as the teams traded goals. Bray started with a penalty three conversion and Henderson counted from the field. Bray then scored another free-throw from 40 yards and Henderson replied again - this time on a text book penalty four strike. With the tie score of 2 - 2, the first carryover of the afternoon was created and the half ended with each team taking $5000.00. The game score - the winner of which would receive the Richard Roenisch bronzes - at this point was 6 - 4 to favor Los Banditos.With the carryover from the third period, the fourth would be played for $10,000. Fassetta scored his third of the day, on a perfect setup from Bray, who then counted his fourth and the $10,000 available now belonged to the Bandits. They were also in control of the overall game score by a count of 8 - 4.The Canadian cold air raged in the penultimate stanza as the Rooney oil workers took control and struck for four unanswered goals. Rooney himself scored twice as Curbelo and Rudy grabbed one each. Northern Blizzard was back in it with the $5,000 royalty and trailed by only that amount with one 'game' left. The overall count was now tied at eight.Los Banditos came back in the final frame as Fassetta - again set up by Bray - scored two quick goals before Rooney scored again for his group. Unfortunately that was it for the invaders from the north as Fassetta notched another and the final chukker went to Los Banditos by a count of 3 - 1, and gave the Bandits the Polo Skins Game victory by a count of $20,000.00 to $10,000. Along with the larger payday, Los Banditos grabbed the bronzes with an overall game win of 11 - 9.Based on his ability to read situations and act correctly and unselfishly, Bray was selected as the Most Valuable Player and Naranjo, owned by Ron Bonaguidi and played by Fassetta in the fourth period, was named the Best Playing Pony.2014 Polo Skins GameLos Banditos 12 - Craig Steinke 1 (sub for Dollinger 1), Mariano Fassetta 5, Jesse Bray 4, Jake Devane 1 (sub for Bowman 1).Northern Blizzard 12 - John Rooney 1, Joe Henderson 4, Juan Curbelo 4, Tim Rudy 3.Tony Gregg  

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

Pheasant Hollow Farm Wins Women's Challenge

Debra Vermoch and her Pheasant Hollow Farm polo team had little trouble capturing the 2014 USPA Pacific Coast Women's Challenge on the traditional 'down' weekend. With both teams taking victories over Ocean Mist/Prime Time in earlier round-robin play, the final came down to a battle of Vermoch and Co. against Luna Polo.With a handicap award of three goals - based on a difference of five goals - Pheasant Hollow never trailed as they took a first period lead of 4 - 1 and dominated to take a four goal advantage to the half at 5 - 1.Luna Polo reduced the gap to three goals in the third (6 -3) and scored once in the fourth, but it wouldn't be near enough as Vermoch's group ran away with a 6 - 4 victory.Brooke Faber, Dayelle Fargey, and Lacey Safonovs scored for the winners, while Abby Riggs counted twice and Malia McCoy and Jennifer Alexy struck once each for the runners-up.Fargey was chosen as the MVP and Alexy's mare, Hugs, garnered Best Playing Pony honors.2014 USPA Pacific Coast Women's ChallengePheasant Hollow Farm 7 - Debra Vermoch 1, Brooke Faber, Lacey Safonovs, Dayelle Fargey 6.Luna Polo 12 - Megan Kozminski 1, Jennifer Alexy 2, Malia McCoy 4, Abby Riggs 5.Ocean Mist/Prime Time 9 - Jana Elordi, Amelia Gilroy 1, Jessica Bailey 4, Roxi Kefauver 4. As well as the Women's Challenge, two C Flight tournaments were played as well.In the C1 Flight, Deer Creek (Krissy Devane, Susan Guggenheim, Becky Clark, Julie Empey) defeated Las Senoritas (Leigh Brecheen, Kit Neacy, Lynni Hutton, Judith Baker).The C2 Flight saw Triangle Bar (Hope Kerley, Karin McCoy, Sydney Jordan, Briana Heilig) win over Polo Riding Academy (Dana Bates, Kate Campbell, Heidi Clark, Emma Tooth).Tony Gregg  

Barrossa Takes WCT Qualifier at Very End

Katie Graham and her Barrossa polo team came away with a deserved 7 - 6 win in Sunday's USPA WCT Qualifier over the Jeff Kazmark sponsored Estancia Venterron - but only with some last second heroics.After an extremely slow start that saw Barrossa - having to give up a women's handicap award of one - down by four goals to  the Estancia Venterron quartet with less than four minutes gone in the first chukker, scramble back to grab one and trail by three after the first.The recovery continued in the second period as Barrossa scored three times to none for Estancia Venterron and the count was tied at four going to the half.Estancia Venterron grabbed a pair in the third to lead by two until Barrossa scored indirectly off a penalty four to come back again - this time to within one at the end of three chukkers.In the fourth, Barrossa drew even - for the second time - about half-way through and it appeared that overtime might be necessary to decide a winner. However, in the final 30 seconds, Dayelle Fargey grabbed a loose ball thirty yards out and scored to give Graham and Co. the victory.For the winners, Fargey and Abby Riggs scored three goals and Isabella Wolf counted one.For Estancia Venterron, Malia McCoy struck three times with Jessica Bailey and Cybele Jordan counting one each. The handicap award completed the total.Wolf was selected as the MVP and Pie, owned and played by Fargey (fourth chukker), was chosen as the Best Playing Pony.2014 USPA WCT QualifierBarrossa 16 - Katie Graham, Dayelle Fargey 6, Abby Riggs 5, Isabella Wolf 5.Estancia Venterron 15 - Kate Weber 4, Jessica Bailey 4, Malia McCoy 4, Cybele Jordan 3.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  

Fish Creek Junior Tournament 2014

The Fish Creek Junior Tournament, sponsored by Fred Mannix, was played on Saturday and Sunday, February 8^th and 9^th. Mannix, one of Eldorado’s greatest supporters, was instrumental in the start of the Junior Program at Eldorado so many, many years ago. In fact, his son Frederick was one of the originals and now carries a rating of 9 goals in Argentina.Both mornings started off with the Lead-line and the Intermediate levels and was comprised of the following players; Conner Garsed, Tommy Steinke, Jaqueline Trabbitts, Colby Smith, Nicky Steinke, Gabriella Trabbitts, Ryan Kerley, Piers Bossom, Haley Schneider, Mike Estrada, and Uakea Huddleston.Huddleston and Garsed were selected as the respective MVP’s and Bossom’s Macho Man and Estrada’s Vienna were chosen as the best Playing Ponies.With the completion of the first levels, it was time for the advanced group to saddle up and take the field. In a somewhat new twist, it was decided that the boys (Rhandy Heredia, Riley Jordan, Baine Bossum on Saturday, Grant Palmer on Sunday, and Joe Coors) would play the girls (Hope Kerley, Gracie Gonzales, Sydney Jordan, and Angelina Quirante).Most everyone in attendance thought that the boys would win easily and that appeared to be the case as they scored within the first 20 seconds of Saturday’s play. Not so however, as the girls came back to tie in less than one minute and went on to win the Saturday game by a 4 – 2 score – to the dismay of the so called stronger sex.Sunday was to be the showdown as the score was carried over to start the play. With their reputations on the line, the boys jumped out quickly and got back the two goals they trailed by. The girls came right back however and went ahead, only to be caught by the guys once again.When regulation time expired, the score was tied at six apiece. It was decided that overtime would be played and the boys prevailed and were declared the champions. Talk of a rematch was rampant.Gracie Gonzales was chosen as the Most Valuable Player and Hope Kerley's mare Minuet was selected as the Best Playing Pony.Once again a big thank you to Jane Isquith for organizing another wonderful event and a big thanks as well to Isabella Wolf for umpiring the advanced level. Not an easy task given the intensity of the play.

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

Joe Barry Memorial draws 50 young stars

The numbers were large for the 2014 Joe Barry Memorial Junior Polo Tournament played on January 18 and 19 at the Eldorado Polo Club in Indio, Ca. Of course, Joe Barry was one of the forces behind the creation of the junior program at the Southern California venue.First to go very early on both mornings was the lead-line group, consisting of some very young participants. In no particular order they were; Matias Wolf, Justine Hoffman-Keyfauver, Garrett Hartzel-Russell, Nicky Steinke, Anna Margaret Hartzell-Russell, Adam Hoffman-Keyfauver, Diego Duenas, Gabriella Trabbitts, Uakea Huddleston, and Valentina Tadeo. The youngest group played a 12 minute chukker each morning, and while the score was kept, no one was really sure who won. Didn’t really matter anyway as all seemed to have a good time – parents included.Second to go in the 2014 edition was the intermediate bunch. Several here had just graduated from the lead-line and were ‘on their own’ for the first time. Two teams saw action, consisting of the Reds and the Blacks. For the reds, Quinn Kyle, Rosie Gonzales, Alyssa Garcia, and Ella Bonilla lined up against the black team of Conner Garsed, Anthony Atchy, Tommy Steinke, and Jaqueline Trabbitts. These youngsters played a 12 minute period each morning as well and again the final score is unknown – and, as well, probably not important.If the scoring wasn’t important in the first two divisions, it certainly was in the advanced level as three teams mounted up to play a two day round-robin. Empire lined up with Rhyo Rainsford-Keyfauver, Alex Payan, Nick Roth, and Gracie Gonzales. World Gym sent out Hank Uretz, Rhandy Heredia, Grant Palmer, and Julio Andrade. Coldwell Banker Menlo was the third foursome and consisted of Alanzo Andrade, Sydney Jordan, Hope Kerley, and Riley Jordan. After two mornings of rather impressive and fast play in the round-robin format, World Gym finished on top followed by Coldwell Banker Menlo and Empire. Many in attendance commented on how much fun it was to watch the upper level, made more interesting by the fact that it wasn’t that long ago that several were lead-line competitors.With Jane Isquith organizing from the Eldorado side and Connie Atikinson bringing the Empire kids over, the 2014 Joe Barry was truly a very successful event. These two ladies most certainly know how to organize as the entire program was run perfectly and they should be congratulated.Eldorado will host two more Junior Tournaments consisting of the Fish Creek (February 8 and 9) and Arty Cameron Memorial (March 8 and 9)

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    

Women's Tournament Feb 27 - Mar 2

Once again Eldorado will host the Pacific Coast Circuit Western Women's Challenge along with the WCT Qualifier. It is guaranteed to be a great display of women's polo and a lot of fun for all involved.Three flights will be on offer, individual and team nominations are welcome. Please sign up by February 20, contact the Polo Office on (760)-342-2223 or eldorado@eldoradopoloclub.com.A Flight WCT Qualifier (2 to 3 Goal Teams)B Flight USPA Pacific Coast Circuit Western Women's Challenge (-1 to 1 Goal Teams)C Flight Eldorado Challenge (-2 Goal Teams and below)

Message from Dr Mike Manno

2 Southern California racehorses test positive for EHV-1. Polo clubs toinstitute entry ban on any potentially exposed horses.OK, stop and don't panic - just read on...Two Thoroughbred racehorses, one stabled at Santa Anita Racetrack in Los Angeles County and onefrom a farm in Ramona in San Diego County, have tested positive for the non-neuropathicstrain of Equine Herpes Virus - 1. These horses had exposure to each other previously and havebeen isolated and are being treated and seem to be recovering nicely. The California Departmentof Food and Agriculture and the California Horse Racing Board officials feel this infection iscontained, although ongoing, and is being closely monitored. Racing is continuing as usual atSanta Anita.After discussions with the polo managers at both Eldorado and Empire Polo Clubs, even thoughchances for infection here are minimal, we are instituting an entry ban on any horse that has beenstabled at either the Ramona farm or at Santa Anita within the last 30 days. Any green horseprospect off the track or coming from any farm that may have had exposure to any of thesehorses in any way will not be allowed on the polo grounds or stabling area for the remainder ofthe season effective immediately. If you have any polo horse that has pastured or stabled withhorses that may have been to Santa Anita in the last 30 days we ask that they not be brought onthe grounds either. Again, this is just a mutually agreed precautionary response. We have noongoing or potentially ongoing infection here.While this minor episode may be over quickly, we ask everyone to police themselves and try notto bring any potentially exposed horse to the polo grounds. Please do not panic or overreact aswe have no knowledge that we have had any crossover of horses at this point. If anyone has anyinformation to the contrary, please advise me or the polo managers as soon as possible. Shouldconditions change, we will be sure to update everyone.Thank you for your cooperationMichael Manno, DVM, MS

Soroptimist Fundraiser Event

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.