The History of Benefit Polo

Polo to benefit charities in our community has been a tradition for more than 100 years. Dating back to October of 1893 when the first benefit was played for the St. Louis Children’s Hospital, St. Louis players and their mounts have performed to thrill spectators and support worthwhile organizations. The players and sponsors of Saint Louis Polo Club are very proud of the heritage of giving back to the community. 

Partnership is what the sport of polo is all about. It’s an alliance between the player and the horse, and it’s also a connection made between teammates. Partnerships with local charities help build a strong and thriving community by responding to the needs of others. Through collaborative efforts, the Saint Louis Polo Club hopes to continue that synergy that has already been established. 

The Saint Louis Polo Club is humbled and grateful to continue the long tradition of giving back, of building forward, and contributing to the fabric of gracious generosity which is a hallmark of the heartland. 

If you are interested in becoming involved with Saint Louis Benefit Polo, please contact Susie von Gontard at 314.941.5681. 

The 2019 Endangered Wolf Polo Classic has been rescheduled to September 19, 2019

“I have played polo with carpenters, teachers, high school students, housewives, an insurance agent, a dentist, a farmer, retirees, and young children. There is a misconception that polo is strictly elite. Club polo is very welcoming. Anyone can jump in who wants to play.” – Steve Johnson, President of Saint Louis Benefit Polo  

Saint Louis Benefit Polo Partnering Charities 

 CANTER Illinois 

Care to Learn 

Edgewood Children’s Center 

Endangered Wolf Center 

Epworth Children and Family Services 

Eureka Veterans Memorial 

Gateway to Hope 

Junior League of St. Louis 

Mercy Hospital St. Louis 

Muscular Dystrophy Association 

Ronald McDonald House Charities 

SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital 

St. Louis Children’s Hospital 

Stray Rescue of St. Louis 

The National Children’s Cancer Society 

TREE House of Greater St. Louis 

The 2019 Gateway to Hope Benefit Polo is July 27 at Spirit Valley Farms.