The 2nd Annual Philadelphia Polo Classic Returns to Fairmount Park This September
If you’ve never experienced a polo match before, here’s your chance. The 2nd Annual Philadelphia Polo Classic returns to Fairmount Park on September 23. Following the success of last year’s inaugural event benefitting local non-profit, Work to Ride, organizers anticipate and even larger crowed this year, with an expected attendance of 5,000 guests.
Philadelphia’s own polo champion Kareem Rosser will lead his team in two Polo Matches, including the Feature Cup Match, where he will face off against world-famous polo player Nacho Figueras’ team in a much-anticipated rematch with the support of acclaimed polo players including Nick Roldan and those from the Work to Ride program.
The first match before the feature will host teams of current and alumni program members of the Work to Ride program, highlighting the talented young adults who have excelled through the programs unique, urban equestrian community. Among the participating players is Work to Ride’s Alyssa Perren, who was recently accepted to Harvard University, and Mosiah Gravesande, last year’s Feature Cup Match MVP, who recently committed to the University of North Texas.
“Last year, our event became a milestone in Philadelphia history as the first time a Polo Classic has been held in Fairmount Park, let along one featuring Black polo players competing together on the same field,” said Kareem Rosser, Work to Ride program alumni, Board Member, and Polo Champion. “This year, we aim to continue to push the boundaries around this incredible sport and highlight the talent present in our community, proving that the sport of kings can be accessible to everyone regardless of their background.”
The 2023 Philadelphia Polo Classic event promises to be even more exceptional than the first, with new and returning sponsors such as the famed Ganzi family. Enhanced ticketing opportunities will include bleacher and lawn seating, the Philadelphia Polo Classic Lounge with reserved on-field seating for groups of four, 10-person VIP field-side tents featuring an all-day hospitality tent, and new for 2023, the Polo Classic Chukker Tents, offering a social atmosphere for guests to watch the matches from while indulging in food and beverages.
“As we look ahead to our 2023 Polo Classic, we are reminded of the impact this event and the Work to Ride program has had on the lives of our past and present program members,” said Lezlie Hiner, Work to Ride Founder. “Through our program we can support deserving young adults like Alyssa Perren and Mosiah Gravesande who have achieved their dreams of pursuing higher education, among many other exceptional individuals in the Work to Ride program. We look forward to continuing our mission of empowering and celebrating Philadelphia youth through an even greater event this Fall.”
Proceeds from the event will support the Work to Ride programs and capital campaign toward continued investment in the facility and indoor riding center. Work to Ride Leaders have proudly raised $10 million of their $12 million campaign goal which will serve to expand and improve Work to Ride facilities and resources to extend the reach of program and services to underserved youth who could benefit from the experience.
Tickets to the event start at $35 for general admission and can be found here.