Harry Payne Whitney

In 1908, Harry Payne Whitney took on the task of organizing an American team to challenge England for the Westchester Cup. He chose the best players for the team, assembled a great string of ponies and devised the teamwork and strategy. The American victory in 1909 revolutionized polo and made it the fast, fluid and exciting game it is today. Whitney was also a major force in yachting, thoroughbred horse breeding and racing, the appreciation of sporting art, and philanthropy.

According to Devereux Milburn, Whitney was a great polo player and an inspiring captain. It would be impossible to overestimate the debt that American polo owes this 10-goal player.

 Harry Payne Whitney on Balada