Willis Allen, Sr.

A true benefactor of the sport, Willis Allen, Sr., fostered the development and growth of polo on the West Coast. Willis was one of the original founders of several California polo clubs, including Eldorado in Palm Desert, Lake Farms in Indio, the San Diego Polo Club in Rancho Santa Fe, and he continued the tradition of support in Lakeside.

Willis served as a USPA Governor from 1969-1974 and played on numerous national and international teams. He raised top quality, award-winning polo ponies, and was the sponsor of the national title-winning polo ponies from San Diego. According to many, Willis’ enthusiasm for the sport was infectious. Still playing polo at age 89, his love of the game kept him in the saddle and others playing alongside him.