The match, played on the prestigious U.S. Polo Assn. Field One at the National Polo Center in Wellington, Florida, marked a pivotal moment in one of polo’s most celebrated events – The Gauntlet of Polo.
In a gripping and emotional finale, Park Place clinched their first-ever USPA Gold Cup title, defeating the Coca-Cola team with a thrilling 10-9 victory on Sunday.
The match, which took place at the prestigious U.S. Polo Assn. Field One at the National Polo Center in Wellington, Florida, marked a defining moment in one of polo’s most celebrated events. Known for its blend of high-stakes competition and luxury lifestyle, the National Polo Center remains the beating heart of the sport.
The USPA Gold Cup is the second tournament in the Gauntlet of Polo—a highly sought-after series of three high-goal tournaments that capture the attention of polo aficionados worldwide. The event’s grandeur is perfectly complemented by the National Polo Center’s state-of-the-art facilities, which offer a dynamic mix of athletic excellence and a vibrant social atmosphere, making it a key fixture in the polo calendar.
Under the leadership of the talented Hilario Ulloa, Park Place displayed remarkable resilience and strategic acumen throughout the match. The game reached its emotional peak in the extra chukker, where a decisive penalty goal from Ulloa sealed the win for Park Place.
Known for his pinpoint accuracy, Ulloa’s ability to convert under pressure—he boasts a flawless 100% penalty conversion rate throughout the tournament—was crucial to securing the title.
The victory was especially poignant for Ulloa, who dedicated the win to his late teammate, Rufino Laulhé, who tragically passed away earlier this year in a car accident.
“I want to honor Rufo Laulhé today,” Ulloa said, reflecting on the emotional weight of the victory. “We had a tough start to the season, and I had been looking forward to playing with him. He was destined to be a future 10-goaler, one of the biggest stars in polo.”
The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. Coca-Cola started strong, taking a 3-1 lead in the first chukker. However, Park Place quickly regained momentum, dominating the second half.
As the tension mounted, Coca-Cola mounted a comeback, with back-to-back goals from Polito Pieres—including a dramatic equalizer with just 46 seconds left in regulation time—sending the match into overtime.
In the critical extra chukker, a foul committed by Coca-Cola set the stage for Ulloa to take a penalty shot. With ice in his veins, Ulloa lined up and converted the goal, giving Park Place the coveted USPA Gold Cup title and ensuring their place in polo history.
Park Place’s triumph was more than just a win—it was a tribute to the legacy of a fallen teammate. Andrey Borodin, the Russian team captain, emphasized the emotional significance of the victory: “It’s an emotional win for us, and it brings the team closer together. Now, we turn our eyes to the US Open. Winning the Gold Cup has elevated our confidence.”
Adding to the team’s accolades, 19-year-old Louis Hine was named Most Valuable Player for his stellar performance throughout the tournament, showcasing impressive shooting skills and composure under pressure. Meanwhile, Peke Gonzalez’s lightning-fast grey pony was awarded Best Playing Pony, further underlining the exceptional talent on display.
As the Gauntlet of Polo moves toward its final event, the U.S. Open, all eyes are now set on the ultimate showdown. The National Polo Center continues to provide a stunning backdrop for world-class polo, blending elite competition with a luxurious social atmosphere.
For fans and newcomers alike, the Gauntlet of Polo offers an unparalleled experience that celebrates the sport’s rich traditions while embracing the lifestyle of elegance, sophistication, and community that defines the world of polo.
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