Walt Khun

Walt “Papa” Kuhn contributed a lifetime of devotion to the sport of polo through his longstanding efforts as a mentor of numerous players who sought his training and guidance in learning how to play the game. For more than 30 years, his Fairlane Farms locations in both Illinois and Florida allowed many players a simple and affordable way to become part of the polo world.

He is credited with starting the youth polo tournament at Palm Beach Polo & Country Club and the original Carlos Avendano tournament. Along with his wife, Shirley, and his three polo-playing sons, and the sacrifices of a non-polo playing sister and fourth son, Walt built a fine family reputation for training people from all walks of life without regard for money or prestige. Always a presence fieldside in both high- and low-goal matches, Walt continued to encourage new generations of players with his infectious laugh and hearty smile.