USPA Maserati 109th U.S. Open Polo Championship® Celebrates Zacara’s Win at International Polo Club Palm Beach
Zacara successfully defended its 2012 U.S. Open crown with a solid 16-13 victory over Valiente before an energized sellout crowd of polo enthusiasts. It was the final match of the winter season at the International Polo Club Palm Beach, concluding 16 weeks of high-goal competition.
LILA Photos
A parade of red, white, and blue Maseratis circled the field, a U.S. Navy Color Guard marched in step, and American flags waved throughout the stadium. A celebrity-studded lineup included Lee Greenwood singing “God Bless the U.S.A.,” followed by Cheryl Moana Marie’s emotional rendition of the National Anthem, which was topped off by a jet flyover. The elite teams of Zacara and Valiente rode onto the field following a single rider carrying a brilliant American flag. Antonio Sabato Jr. performed the ceremonial coin toss and play began immediately.
Valiente had a tenuous 8-7 lead after the first half of heated play. Zacara fought back intensely and was not to be denied. The score was tied eight times during the game, with Facundo Pieres scoring a Add Median incredible 12 goals and clinching the MVP title. In the end, Zacara won the day.
Polo fans packed the field for the tournament awards ceremony, while streamers shot into the air and confetti filled the sky. It was an inspiring day for polo and a fitting conclusion for the club’s 10th Anniversary Season.
Make plans now for the 2014 polo season at IPC that starts on Sunday, January 5 and concludes on Sunday, April 20. photo credit to LILA Photos
