Despite a vast green expanse the size of nine football fields, Greenwich Polo Club has never been about social distancing. On summer Sundays, it’s dotted by graceful white pavilions in which the Veuve Clicquot flows freely — along with good eats, laughter and boutique treasures. But with the coronavirus raging in our area this past spring, the club was forced to cancel its Greenwich, Monte Waterbury and American Cup matches.
Now the high-goal polo club — founded by businessman, art collector and philanthropist Peter Brant in 1981 — hopes to finish strong with the return of the prestigious East Coast Open Aug. 30 and Sept. 6 and 13.
At press time, the plan called for reduced public participation. Reserved, presold tickets for lawn and limited grandstand seating would be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Still, the club will retain the social aspect of the matches with socially distanced circles and tables with umbrellas for attendees.
Last year, Postage Stamp Farm — spearheaded by Annabelle Gundlach, one of the few female patrons of a polo team — defeated Monterosso in a taut, thrilling final, 12-10. Santino Magrini, playing for the losing team, was nonetheless named MVP. The Best Playing Pony was Ikana from Los Machitos’ stable in Buenos Aires, ridden by Postage Stamp Farm’s Lerin Zubiaurre.
Here’s hoping for another great tournament to end a truncated season on a high note.
For more, visit greenwichpoloclub.com.
