The Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2014 in its Fifth Year of Success

Nine Teams entered this year prove success and growth of Dubai's Number 1 Polo Tournament

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai.

The Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2014 (Dubai Open) 16 Goal Handicap is the most prestigious international polo tournament in the in Middle East, Asia and Africa. The premier polo competition of the year involves the world's best polo teams and players battling it out to win the cup.

This is the fifth year in a row that the much anticipated event will be held. It takes place at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club at the Arabian Ranches in Dubai. 

The tournament has grown in tandem with the city of Dubai and has quickly gained popularity and found its place on the Polo world stage. In 2012 the Dubai Gold Cup Series was recognized by the World Polo Tour (WPT).

With its exciting mix of top-class sportsmanship and glamour, it has earned a reputation as one of the most prestigious events on the international polo calendar. It’s also one of the most important annual tournaments in the region and always attracts a high profile crowd.

As always the Dubai Polo Gold Cup series promises the very best in sportsmanship, entertainment of the highest level and an atmosphere unlike any other polo event.

The series is split into two tournaments that will start next year with the Silver Cup, beginning 1^st February  and ending 15^th February 2014. The Gold Cup will commence on 24^th February  and will end on 14^th March 2014.

 Nine teams have confirmed their participation in the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2014:

§  Habtoor Polo Team ~ Patron Mohammed Al Habtoor

§  UAE Polo Team ~ Patron  Her Highness Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

§  Ghantoot Polo Team ~ Patron HH Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

§  Bin Drai Polo Team ~ Patron Saeed Bin Drai

§  Mahra Polo ~ Patron Rashid Al Habtoor

§  Abu Dhabi Polo Team ~ Patron Faris Yabhouni

§  Zedan Polo Team ~ Patron Amr Zedan

§  Dubai One Polo Team ~ Patron Rashid Al Bawardi

§  Dubai Two Polo Team ~ Patron Tarik Al Bawardi 

ADCB Polo Team headed by H.H. Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan wins Pink Polo 2013 match against St. Regis by a score of 4 - 3

More than 6000 attending visitors convened to witness and support Pink Polo presented by ADCB  

Pink Polo attendees were served up a real treat for the senses as the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club arena was set ablaze with the sound of thundering hooves, the sights of profound showmanship and sporting agility, and the aromas of a day spent indulging in the best food and drink experience served in Arabian hospitality, all in the name of breast cancer awareness at the Pink Polo 2013 event, presented by ADCB.

H.H Sheikh Zayed Bin Saeed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan was among the royal patrons to attend, and hand out the prizes to the winning teams and various competitions that were part of the event’s schedule.

Commencing at 2 pm, the event started off with some light entertainment that featured camel and pony rides, face painting and a roaming magician to amuse the flocked crowds of families and children.

 

An Emirati pavilion was organised by the General Women Union that displayed locally handcrafted goods and clothing, and cosmetic products such as henna.

The entertainment then shifted gears to a camel polo match, a sport that has been on the Pink Polo itinerary for the second time since its inception, military skydiving and a balloon release that displayed Pink Polo and UAE flag branding.

The ADCB Pink Garden amassed a great response from the women and children with its many fun-filled activities, giveaways, and entertainment that spanned the entire event itinerary, including a bouncy castle, garden games, and arts and crafts activities among many others.

St. Regis also hosted its hospitality pavilion that served up a delectable food and beverage experience for its guests, along with a heritage section that reflected on the St. Regis brand and its vast history with the sport of Polo.

As the centre of breast cancer information dissemination and awareness at the event, the Pink Clinic received a very positive response from the attendees who were presented with the opportunity to meet with and to talk to medical experts, meet breast cancer survivors, learn self-examination techniques and undergo free screenings at the mobile mammography unit. It was largely supported by the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD) and Pink Caravan, an organisation that aims to raise 15 Million AED to continue breast cancer outreach programs to the UAE by providing technically advanced methods in screening for breast cancer and support networks

All donations from the event along with 20 percent of the proceeds from sales went to Pink Caravan.

Fiery action was the main order of the day as the stalwart teams of renown – ADCB and St. Regis – engaged each other once again in a match that has consistently been the highlight of the Pink Polo intellectual property ever since it first started out in 2010

ADCB emerged the winning team, with a final score of 4 - 3.

HH Sheikh Falah said “Today’s match is a testament to the UAE public that there are no winners or losers in this sport. I am proud to have played with some of the finest players in the world on this field today, and I look forward to many more occasions in the years to come.”

He also added his appreciation of the attending UAE audiences for being present to witness and uphold the Pink Polo event year after year.

Oscar Colombres of the ADCB polo team said “Even though we won the match today, we are certain that the real winner is the human spirit of the UAE residents for having united together and fought for a common cause that has claimed the lives of many people all over the world and specifically in the UAE”

Abdullah Bin Desmal of the St. Regis polo team said “We were very touched by the massive turnout, and the support that was garnered by so many people. My team members and I are proud to be associated with such an event, and truly look forward to competing next year against ADCB, and hopefully win!”

The highlight of the evening was HH Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Chairman of the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club, who returned to the sport after a 10 year gap since he last officially competed on the field, playing for the ADCB team at the Pink Polo event..

Both the teams were very appreciative and honoured to have him back, and to especially mark an event that has made an impact on UAE society.

Among the many dignitaries that attended were the Australian, UK, and Omani Ambassadors to the UAE.

Famous Emirati thespian and noted breast cancer activist Saoud Al Kaabi was one among the many celebrities that attended the event.

The event concluded with prizes handed out to the best pink dressed contestants, with the  ‘best pink dressed’ adult category receiving 2 business class tickets from Etihad Airways to any destination from Abu Dhabi, the ‘best pink dressed’ child category receiving 4 economy class tickets from Etihad Airways to any destination from Abu Dhabi, and ‘best pink dressed’ pet category receiving facial spa treatments for its owners from Silkor.

@Pink_Polo Pink Polo is back!

Under the patronage of His Highness  Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Pink Polo celebrates 4^th consecutive year as iconic breast cancer awareness event in the UAE presented by ADCB

Upcoming fun-filled family day promises to be an affair to remember

Abu Dhabi, 22^nd October 2013,: The 4^th Annual Pink Polo match is announced to take place on the Friday 8^th November, 2013 at the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club, announced at a press conference held earlier today at the St. Regis Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

Launched in 2010 and an initial attendance of more than 3,000 spectators, the event is held under the patronage of Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club Chairman, HH Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as a way of increasing breast cancer awareness in the UAE.

Polo enthusiasts from across the nation will converge at the UAE’s Royal Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club to witness the action at the main event, as the Argentinian’s lock horns with the Emirati team in an all out battle for awareness first, and competition second.

The iconic breast cancer awareness drive held every year has garnered a favorable response from the UAE population since its inception, due to its roster of fun activities and competitions prior to the exhibition polo match that promises entertainment for all age groups, such as pony and camel rides, falcon show, photo sessions with polo players, camel polo, balloon release, and a military skydive show

Other attractions include hot air balloon, face painting, henna, magic acts, balloon artists, doll house lounge, meet and greet photo wall, football tricks and tips coaching, live BBQ, live DJ, and much more.

All donations from the event along with  20 percent of the proceeds from sales will go to Pink Caravan, a committee-run campaign that aims to raise 15 Million AED to continue outreach programs to the Nation, support breast cancer awareness and reinforce their support systems.

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In addition, a best ‘pink dressed’ award is held to motivate attendees – adults, children, and even pets – to don their best pink outfit in support for the fight against the breast cancer and also in honour of those who survived the deadly disease, with prizes being handed out to the winning participants in the category.

Regarded as the nucleus of awareness dissemination at the event, the Pink Clinic is the venue to meet with medical experts and breast cancer survivors, learn self-examination techniques and undergo free screenings at the mobile mammography unit.

This year’s event is presented by ADCB and supported by Abu Dhabi Health Authority, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Capital D Studio, Etihad Airways, KBS Communications, The DollHouse Dubai,  The Living Room Cafe,  Trio Couture, Yes Chef Catering, Almeka, St. Regis Abu Dhabi, and Abu Dhabi Media as its official media partner .

H.E Saeed Bin Houfan, Vice Chairman of Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club said “We are very excited to host the this event four years in a row. With the tremendous response it has achieved so far, we are positive that this will be a hallmark event that will place the UAE as a nation that cares and promotes worthy causes, bringing maximum awareness to its growing population and thereby setting an example for other nations to follow.”

Dr. Majdi Abd El Muhdi, Head of Corporate Communications at ADCB said: “ADCB has been associated with Pink Polo since its inception and we are very happy with our continued involvement in this unique project which uses a fun and family friendly sporting vehicle to raise awareness of a very serious issue.

I know that the players have been working hard and I wish them good luck as they take to the pitch,” he said.

Oliver Key, General Manager, The St. Regis Abu Dhabi commented on the hotel’s involvement at Pink Polo.  “We are proud to be a part of Pink Polo to help raise awareness about breast cancer.  As polo is an innate part of the St. Regis legacy, this event gives us the opportunity to support an important cause and also provide our partners and guests with an exclusive polo experience.”

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UAE and is the second-biggest killer of women in the country. If discovered and treated at an early stage, 98 per cent of sufferers will survive. However only 30 per cent of breast cancer cases in the UAE are diagnosed early.

For further information, kindly visit www.pinkpolo.ae or visit Facebook “Official Pink Polo UAE or Twitter @Pink_Polo”.

@PoloAtThePalace @CouttsandCo UAE POLO STARS POISED FOR EPIC SHOWDOWN AT COUTTS POLO AT THE PALACE SOCIETY EVENT OF THE YEAR

UAE POLO STARS POISED FOR EPIC SHOWDOWN AT

COUTTS POLO AT THE PALACE SOCIETY EVENT OF THE YEAR

-       Event returns to Abu Dhabi’s iconic Emirates Palace 22 – 23 November 2013

-       World’s top luxury brands come together for an unforgettable weekend of polo, fashion, networking and art

-       Tickets for the showpiece event on sale now

Coutts Polo at the Palace returns to Emirates Palace 22 - 23 November, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, with two UAE polo stars vying for victory.

City Events, the London-based company who has brought the glamorous showpiece to the UAE’s capital, confirmed Mohammed Al Habtoor, a familiar name on the UAE polo scene, will captain Team Buenos Aires, who last year clinched the cherished Coutts Cup after a thrilling 3 – 2 penalty shoot out over Coutts Abu Dhabi.

Returning as captain this year for Fabergé Team London is British up-and-comer Stuart Wrigley, who last year charmed audiences with his debonair style on the pitch, despite narrowly missing out on a win.

The captains will compete against home team Coutts Abu Dhabi and Maserati Team Milan, together representing global fashion, luxury automotive and financial centres.

Last year’s inaugural event drew an international, sell-out audience to the West Lawn of the inimitable Emirates Palace, where guests were treated to high-octane polo as well as five-star hospitality across two spectacular days.

“Our special ‘palace rules’ make for a fast paced and exhilarating weekend of entertainment,” said City Events CEO, Rory Heron.  “This prestigious event takes place on a custom built pitch one third smaller than a standard polo field, creating a unique experience with action at its core. We’re thrilled to have attracted such high-calibre players who will no doubt thrill the crowds.”

Last year’s event quickly became ‘Abu Dhabi’s society event of the year’, with a VIP audience and special guests enjoying luxurious hospitality from the sidelines of the action.  Guests in the Polo Garden enjoyed the unique opportunity to test drive the Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio Sport, and graze on delectable hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Emirates Palace’s award-winning chefs.

Coutts Polo at the Palace returns this year with the support of some of the world’s most prestigious brands, who together will create a memorable weekend of pure opulence.  Returning as title sponsor is Coutts, whose sponsorship of the event forms part of their ambitious growth strategy in the Middle East, where the company has offices in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha.

Amir Sadr, Co-Head Coutts Middle East, comments:

Amir Sadr, Coutts; Holger Schroth, Emirates Palace;
 Rory Heron, City Events (L-R)

"Coutts Polo at the Palace represents one of the most prestigious occasions in the Middle East's sporting calendar and we are delighted to be the headline sponsor of this memorable event for the second year.  As we continue to develop our Middle East operation, we are proud to be associated with such a strong heritage; something that is shared in our own brand values."

New sponsors this year, Fabergé, the iconic artist jeweller, will present its latest High Jewellery creations, whilst Maserati returns to offer unique test drive experiences of their most recent model line up along the Abu Dhabi Corniche.

New for 2013, Emirates Palace will host an exclusive after party at its chic Breeze Lounge on both days, post match, for all those who attend the polo. International DJ’s will take to poolside decks to maintain the momentum from the exciting day of matches for a glamorous night under the stars.

Entrance to the event is strictly limited to 1,000 people per day, in order to ensure a unique experience for all guests.  Host sponsor Emirates Palace is also offering a Polo Weekend Package, for those wanting to enjoy the sport of kings whilst living like one.

Coutts Polo at the Palace event organisers and sponsors
 with HH Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan

“Abu Dhabi is quickly becoming a global luxury hotspot and there is no better place to showcase this weekend of food, fashion, art, and sport than The Emirates Palace.  Our grand facade and lush lawns set a picture-perfect backdrop for the weekend’s events, and with a full schedule planned for the two-day event guests will be wise to come and stay for the weekend so they don’t miss out on a minute of fun,” said Alexander Schneider, Hotel Manager of The Emirates Palace.

Coutts Polo at the Palace is held on 22 – 23 November. General admission tickets for the Polo Garden are available now, priced at AED250 per person per day. Tickets can be purchased from

Time Out Tickets and booking early is advisable to avoid missing out. For VIP hospitality please contact Rachel Roullier, City Events, Rachel@cityevents.uk.com or visit www.citypoloseries.com. 

Coutts Polo at the Palace returns to Abu Dhabi @PoloAtThePalace

All the glamour and excitement set for 22-23 November

The stunning success of the inaugural Coutts Polo at the Palace will see a return of the showpiece event this November 22 - 23, organisers confirmed today.

City Events announced the newest addition to Abu Dhabi’s sports and events calendar is set for another glamorous show on the lawns of Emirates Palace, which last year welcomed sell-out crowds on an unforgettable sun-kissed weekend.

The two-day tournament will once again offer spectators a unique take on polo with special ‘Palace Rules’ developed to make it fast paced and a thrilling afternoon of entertainment.

“We were very proud of the success of the first event,” said City Events CEO, Rory Heron, who is behind the MINT Polo in the Park in London and has brought the spin-off event to Abu Dhabi. 

“The polo world really stood up and took notice of what we were doing and we are expecting an even greater level of interest not only locally but also internationally in this year’s event.  

“We had a tremendous amount of positive feedback from all those involved, from the spectators, to the sponsors through to the media and other stakeholders in Abu Dhabi, and we are now determined to make this an annual event on the calendar.”

Representing some of the world’s leading centres of finance and fashion, the four teams – team Abu Dhabi sponsored by Coutts, team London, sponsored by Faberge, team Milan sponsored by Maserati and team Buenos Aires – will once again compete for the Coutts Polo Cup over two days of adrenalin-fuelled action. 

The weekend blends fashion, retail and gastronomy with thrilling, high-octane polo within one of the world’s most beautiful settings – Emirates Palace.

A custom-built polo field, one third smaller than a regular polo field, will be built on the West Lawn of Emirates Palace to create a unique venue that will again host some of the sport’s top players.

Admission is restricted to 1,000 people per day to make sure every guest gets a fantastic, up-close view. The hospitality tickets, starting from AED1,750 per person per day, offer full catering throughout the day with access to either the shared VIP Hospitality, limited to 250 people, or one of five Private Chalets catering for up to 50 people. These are expected to sell out quickly, so organisers advise to book early to avoid disappointment.  A limited number of general admission tickets will be released by Time Out tickets on June 1. These will be priced at AED250 per person per day.  Book early to avoid missing out.

Event title sponsor Coutts, one of the world’s most prestigious private banks which was founded in the UK in 1692, saw real benefits from last year’s first-time event. 

Amir Sadr, Co-Head of Coutts Middle East, said: "We were delighted with the success of last year's inaugural event. The past twelve months have been an exciting period for Coutts in the Middle East as we continue to invest in our local business. Coutts Polo at the Palace reinforces our presence in the region and enables us to partner with some of the world’s most exclusive brands to offer our guests a memorable experience. “

Emirates Palace will once again become the iconic backdrop to Abu Dhabi’s most glamorous event, providing the perfect setting for the ‘sport of kings.’

Alexander Schneider, Hotel Manager of Emirates Palace said: “We are very much looking forward to the second edition of Coutts Polo at the Palace, which has already gained a tremendous reputation after its instant success last year. For Emirates Palace, this tournament is further emphasising the tradition of hosting world class events at our premises by providing an unrivalled backdrop with service to match. For 2013 we can already claim international interest and awareness which will surely make this year even more exclusive and memorable for both visitors and players alike.”

To book hospitality tickets for Coutts Polo at the Palace, contact Rachel Roullier at Rachel@cityevents.uk.com or visit www.citypoloseries.com. For sponsorship enquiries please contact Rory Heron, Rory@cityevents.uk.com.  

One not to miss - Polo Conference with the one and only Eduardo Amaya at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

Present & Future of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai.

With its exciting mix of top-class sportsmanship and glamour, it has earned a reputation as one of the most prestigious events on the international polo calendar and also one of the most important annual tournaments in the region and always attracts a high profile crowd.

The Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2013 came to an end last 15th March 2013. This year the teams were completely different, with a handicap increased to 16 goals, all the teams had good players and it was a very competitive tournament. In the great final, Ghantoot Polo Team won the Gold Cup 2013 and Habtoor Polo won Silver Cup 2013. 

Dubai Polo Gold Cup organization managed to put all the patrons together to get a fair competition and fair play with everyone.

For the next season “2014” the tournament will be 16 goal handicap. And for “2015”, we will increase the handicap from 16 to 18 goal, to target the highest handicapped tournament in Asia and Africa. Our tournament is getting bigger and our objective is to reach the maximum goal handicap of an International polo tournament.

Dubai Polo Gold Cup series has been growing by leaps and bounds, and at present is one of the most eagerly awaited polo events in the Middle East.