A Coca-Cola team player at the IPC field.

Polo season has begun. Normally, I ache at anything that interrupts me watching the NFL playoffs, but ever since we did an article on the International Polo Club and polo champion Jeff Hall, my interest in the sport has piqued. And as a rookie spectator last week at the opening match at the IPC, I had no idea what to expect. For all you other rookies out there, here’s my guideline to your first-ever polo match:

Get there early: Check in is always a long process, so try and beat the crowds by getting there early.

Attire: Pretty much anything goes. But, it is a high-society sport, so if you’re going to wear jeans, make sure they are stark white and by Citizens of Humanity. Otherwise, men can feel free to ditch the suit-and-tie look, simply put on a sports coat and khakis, and feel comfortable. Women are seen in everything from the latest cocktail dress to a more casual frock for daytime. Big floppy hat is appreciated, but not necessary.

Spectators: Half the people watch the game, half just socialize. Just note that if you are in the west-side stands (aka the box seats), you’ll be surrounded by polo enthusiasts, so be prepared to keep your chit-chat to a minimum.

Brunch: Do it. A complimentary glass of champagne comes with your ticket as well as two other drinks of your choice. Plus, all the fun folks are there who probably know just as much as you do about polo. There’s a carving station as well as an omelette chef, shellfish and a nice dessert stand.

Jargon: Don’t be afraid to fling a few key words around. “Chukkas” are playing periods, a “stick” is also a name for a mallet, and “ponies” are the affectionate titles used for the prized horses.

Address:
International Polo Club
Palm Beach
3667 120th Ave. South
Wellington, FL 33414

I was tracking horse hoof prints…

Me and Jenn Tormo with the January cover boy, Jeff Hall. Jeff, a champion polo player, was on the cover our Jupiter Magazine and The Palm Beacher publications.

Champagne served during halftime right on the field … Did you expect anything else during polo?

Cheers!

Me and my pal, Donny, who pre-celebrated his birthday at IPC.

Tailgating at polo? Yep, they do that, too.