World Polo League

World Polo League

By Ron Allen

 

February 2019 is the launch date for the new World Polo League in Wellington, Florida. The concept is the brainchild of polo trio Bob Jornayvaz, Marc and Melissa Ganzi. Dale Smicklas has been named league Commissioner. The former 8 goal pro left the USPA after a disappointing term as Governor-At-Large. He said the 26-goal will start with an All-Star pool featuring eight 10 goal players. The second tournament will be the Founders Cup followed by the Palm Beach Open. The big finale will be the Triple Crown of Polo trophy, also played at the 26-goal level.

 

Valiente’s Bob Jornayvaz introduced several of the high-ranking professional players who will be involved including the worlds number one player Adolfo Cambiaso. Bob promises better TV coverage and says transparency will be the key to their success. Marc Ganzi reiterated that fifteen fields will be used during the season and the emphasis will be on bringing back “fun, open polo” with better rules to improve the playing experience for players and spectators alike.

Just hours before the unveiling of the new league the USPA announced plans for $500,000 in prize money for their lower handicapped 22 goal Triple Crown. The concept was not received well by some of their members. 95% of the USPA membership is not involved in high goal polo and feel the money could have been better spent on helping several of the struggling clubs within the association.