By Sondra Barr
Photos courtesy of Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos
The 2024 Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos, is setting the stage for an unforgettable event on Oct. 26, with its most ambitious lineup yet. Now in its 13th year, the nation’s premier polo event will not only feature its signature blend of high-octane polo matches, fashion shows, and luxury car displays but also introduce a series of exciting new elements. Among these, the much-anticipated addition of “Polo After Dark” promises to extend the day’s excitement well into the evening with night matches under the lights at WestWorld of Scottsdale, located at 16601 N. Pima Rd.
Event founder, owner, and producer Jason Rose highlights the various enhancements that attendees can look forward to this year. “We’ve always strived to intrigue and innovate,” Rose says. “This year, in addition to the beloved daytime festivities—like the world’s ‘Longest’ Fashion Show by Phoenix Fashion Week, Canine Couture Dog Fashion Show, and performances by top polo teams—we’re introducing night polo, which is something truly unique in America. The combination of live music and polo under the stars will offer a completely new experience.”
The new evening format is complemented by a partnership with Relentless Beats, a leading DJ concert producer in the Southwest, which will bring a dynamic sunset concert to the event. “We’re thrilled to partner with Relentless Beats,” Rose continues. “The combination of live music and polo under the stars is something that hasn’t been done before, and we’re confident it will be a hit with our audience.”
Beli Merdovic, general manager of title sponsor Bentley Scottsdale, emphasizes the event’s commitment to maintaining its legacy of luxury and excitement. “Bentley Scottsdale and the Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships represent a tradition of excellence and luxury. That tradition continues as this event brings new elements to thrill and entertain thousands of fans every year,” Merdovic says.
For actor Sterling Jones, who will be returning to captain the World Pride team, the event is a highlight of his year. Jones, known for his roles in “Barbie,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “NCIS,” first played in last year’s Scottsdale Polo Party and quickly found the experience transformative. “Last year was my first year playing polo in Scottsdale, and I was blown away,” Jones says. “It’s an honor to captain the Pride Team. Visibility and inclusivity are crucial, and I’m committed to advocating for change. Our goals are simple: peace, love, and equality.”
Jones, who grew up on a horse ranch in Texas, was reintroduced to horses and the sport of polo through an encounter with Melissa Ganzi, one of the world’s top female polo players. “I met Melissa at a snow polo event in Aspen, and she saw that I had some riding experience,” he recalls. “She invited me to try polo, and it quickly became a passion. Polo has significantly boosted my confidence, both on and off the field. This year, I’m especially excited to play under the lights—something I’ve never done before. It’s going to be an amazing experience.”
Local polo player Diego Florez, a veteran of the Scottsdale Polo Championships, is also excited for the new elements being introduced this year. Florez, who has participated in the event since its inception, is eager to see how the night matches will unfold. “The evening aspect is going to add a whole new layer of complexity,” Florez says. “Playing under the lights is more challenging because of the shadows and how the horses might react, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to see what we can do. We’ve played in the evening at other events, and it’s definitely different, but I think the horses will get used to it quickly.”
Florez, who spent his summer playing polo across Europe, notes that the Scottsdale Polo Championships stand out for their diversity and scale. “This event is unique,” he says. “It’s not just about the polo; it’s about everything else happening around it. The fashion shows, the car displays, the Canine Couture dog fashion show—there’s something for everyone. And this year, with the addition of night polo, it’s going to be even more special.”
In addition to the new night matches, this year’s event will feature teams from across the U.S., including first-time participants from Nashville, Napa, and Sonoma. Defending champions from Aspen Valley, led by one of the best American polo players, Nic Roldan, will also return to compete.
Guests can enjoy the action from various VIP tents, each offering a distinct experience. From the refined elegance of the Prime Luxury Tent, featuring a catered lunch by Maple & Ash, to the energetic atmosphere of the Scottsdale Maserati Drivers & Players VIP Lounge, and the laid-back vibe of the Barrett-Jackson Champagne & Jazz Lounge, there’s a perfect spot for everyone to take in the day’s festivities.
Whether attendees join for the daytime action, the sunset matches, or the night polo, the 2024 Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships promise to be an unforgettable day of sport, style, and celebration. As Rose aptly puts it, “We’ve created something truly unique here in Scottsdale, and this year is shaping up to be our best yet.”
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit thepoloparty.com.
This content is sponsored by Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships, presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos.
