Recap: McDaniels Audi Of Charleston Spring Polo Invitational At Hyde Park Farm And Polo Club

May 18th, 2012

Photo Courtesy: Emily Meier

The thundering hooves of polo ponies, a glorious Charleston day, and music by the Mac Leaphart Band proved to be a winning combination as people turned out in all their spring glory for the polo invitational benefiting Rein and Shine.

Gates opened at 11:oo am. Teams were introduced, the band began to play and Audis, horses, and derby-worthy hats were on display. Three matches were played, the first between local amateurs and professionals. Next, the Charleston Jr. polo team took on the Aiken Jr. Polo team displaying some great young talent. And finally, for the main event, Team Halls Chophouse took on Team Audi. Both of these teams featured professional players from the United States and abroad as well as some top local amateurs. Spectators enjoyed food and beverages while chatting, mingling, and watching the skill and athleticism of the horses and riders displayed on the field. In between matches, everyone helped stomp the divots.

Photo source: http://www.reinandshine.org/

Hyde Park Farm and Polo Club partnered with the Rein and Shine organization last fall and proceeds from this annual invitational benefit this worthy group. Rein and Shine is a PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International) premier accredited facility and has been providing horseback riding as therapy since 2001. Rein and Shine is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing an alternative method of healing to children and adults with physical, emotional, social and/or cognitive disabilities. Currently, the therapeutic program serves over 80 special-needs students, including individuals with disabilities, as well as school groups from Wando High School, Moultrie Middle School, Charleston Autism Academy and St. James Santee Elementary.

If you have not ventured out to the lush landscape that makes up Hyde Park Farm and Polo Club, make any excuse to do so as soon as possible.

The 380-acre Hyde Park Farm and Polo Club, situated approximately 20 miles from Charleston, features polo fields, expansive pastures and paddocks, fishing ponds, and a renovated 1880s farm house. The farm offers turnkey polo instruction through its on-site, professionally staffed school, and also arranges matches for interested players. Hyde Park Farm also provides complete boarding facilities and services for horses. A range of on-site options are available for weddings, special events, private parties, and corporate retreats and outings.