Mr.Polo

Memo Gracida’s memorable old war horse, Mr. Polo, more than lived up to his name. Playing in his first U.S. Open at age 4, the magnificent chestnut thoroughbred gelding played with heart for Memo through over 10 years of high goal polo winning eight U.S. Opens, always playing two chukkers. He earned many Best Playing Pony awards in other major tournaments along the way and was featured in Sports Illustrated magazine.

Mr. Polo with Memo Gracida in 1985; Photo by Red Morgan

Mr. Polo was a perfect example of the extraordinary talent that can be found in thoroughbred horses bought from the race track and re-purposed for polo. Bred in New Mexico, he was purchased by Hall of Famer Memo Gracida the day after winning a race at Sunland Park and went on to polo greatness. Mimi Gracida Boyle related “Mr. Polo had an amazing career from the time he was 3 until his retirement at 14. He won countless Best Playing Pony awards including the Camacho Cup when he was only 4. He played two chukkers in every game he started. He was instrumental in the victories of six different U.S. Open Championships, World Cups, Silver and Gold Cups and many other tournaments. Luckily, a successful DNA removal was performed a few years ago and, hopefully a Mr. Polo Jr. will be playing in the future.”

Mr. Polo with Memo Gracida in 1985; Photo by Red Morgan

Mr. Polo died on June 1, 2015 at the age of 38 and will be forever remembered as one of the great equine athletes in the sport of polo.

Watercolor portrait of Mr. Polo (Top Photo) by artist, Melinda Brewer; www.poloart.ca