Last Saturday I had the pleasure of attending the District Cup on the National Mall. After a year off due to Covid, the District Cup brought polo back to Washington. This year’s event was more special as the games marked the celebration of 100 Years of Polo on the National Mall. According to “Polo Field,” Histories of the National Mall, “The polo field on the National Mall has been a popular site for polo matches since the early 1900s. During World War II members of the military, including General George S. Patton, used the field for intramural games.”
The event is the brainchild of Dario Sotomayor and Nicolas Baca. In a recent interview in Middleburg Life, Braca stated their original mission is to “promote the beautiful sport of polo, the rock stars of the sport (the horses, of course) and to create an event in a historic location where people from all parts of the world, walks of life and interests can come together to celebrate the great game of polo and the beautiful horses that make this dream a reality.” Polo is one of the oldest equestrian sports dating as far back as the 6th centrury BC.
The District Cup day consists of 4 teams in two matches vying for the “The District Cup.” Barring future disruptions, this will be an annual charity event with proceeds benefitting the U.S. Park Police Horse Stables and Education Center. This is part of the Trust for the National Mall’s long-term plan to restore, enrich, and preserve “America’s Front Yard.”
What’s surprising about the day’s events was how increasingly diverse polo is becoming. Seeing women compete along with the men during the matchesj is encouaging. Especially since all of them are just as talented as their male counterparts. Moreover, Kareem Rooser, an African American player, is now considered the face of American polo. In fact, he and his brother, Daymar have been featured by Ralph Lauren, having come out of Philadelphia’s Work to Ride program. Although they weren’t playing at the District Cup, I’ve had the good fortunate seeing them play earlier this year.
But what does one wear to The District Cup polo match? Admittedly I don’t know. So I did what most people do I googled it. Now I’ve been to the Preakness, the second leg of the Triple Crown. And I love attending the Virginia Gold Cup, the steeple chase races held in Middleburg, Virginia.. Both of these events call fro my best derby style. That’s right up my alley, And you know me, I’m always ready for this look!
Thje fact is. I suck at riding a horse. Add swinging a mallet and trying to hit a ball the ground into a goal sounds like trouble for me. I’m much better at watching the events, partaking in the festivities happening duing the games and dressing the part as an in the know spectator!
Details
Jacket: Armani (part of a suit – similar) | Pants: Prada (previous season. Try these | Shirt: Saks Fifth Avenue | Tie: Bloomingdales | Shoes: Ferragamo – similar | Sunglasses – Saint Laurent
