The United States Polo Association’s Border Circuit Governor, Tony Yahyai.
Over the years the border Circuit of the United States Polo Association has struggled to maintain strong and supportive membership, turning to “ghosting” clubs and players in an effort to make the circuit appear larger and stronger than it really was. With the arrival of the circuit’s new Governor, things will change.
The Iranian-born Yahyai was educated at Houston’s San Jacinto College before moving to Austin. His entrance onto the polo scene came 16 years abo when he took lessons at the San Diego Polo Club. He credits his early training to Mark Register and Graham Bray, but the sport quickly took control of the successful insurance broker.
“I got a few horses,” he said, “and then couldn’t get enough of the game.”
Tony and Christina Yahhai.
Yahyai was the driving force behind the club in Baja California and has promoted tournaments and competitions there for over a dozen years. Baja’s Club Polo Baja affiliated with the United States Polo Association in 2013 and Yahyai’s enthusiasm for the game and willingness to assist has continued to grow over the years.
“I have visited every club in the circuit and spoken to every player I could get in touch with,” said Yahai, and am attempting to help strengthen the programs ate each while promoting play between the clubs.”
Looking for seasoned and veteran players, Yahyai named Chuck Rogers as the circuit’s Handicap Chairman and will be adding additional players to step into leadership roles as well.
Tony Yahyai.
Through Yahya’s extended relationship with polo clubs in Mexico, he is looking to recruit additional clubs to affiliate with the USPA that would broaden the competition as well as integrate individual players into various Border Circuit events.
“I love polo and I love to promote polo,” said Yahyai. With his experience and enthusiasm things are looking up for the Border Circuit.