Fred Mannix led Alegría team of about 31 goals comprising of 4 countries including; Canada/Mannix , Australia/Ruki , England/Tomilsion and from Argentina/Bensadon. Alegría has done well in the 2nd level tournamments after a heartbreaking loss in the qualifications. They were in the finals of the Pilara Cup and have a good start in the Camara, which is the second biggest in Argentina now being played during the Open. Most of the players from the Open also compete in it as well. Alegría, as is often the case, drew the team they lost to in the finals in the first round of this tournament. They came back to win in the final moments against another Yank named Nick Roldan (aka Nick The Stick). Ruki was said to have made a nearside neckshot from the boards from 40 yards in to seal the deal. It was a very good win said Coach Julio Zavaleta for his team. They play the Midget (aka Tomas Pieres) in the second round. So good luck to Julio and Alegría.
In other news the women have been playing in the tournament highlights around the country. Houston just finished a big one last week and Buenos Aires has one big Ladies deal going as we speak. They soon will head to Mexico to a polo paradise in Costa Careyes, Mexico. They have their big ladies tournament during the Thanksgiving holiday. If you are looking for a fun polo destination take your honey and hide in the best place on earth for polo and relaxation. It is a FANTASTIC getaway. Visit www.costacareyes.com.
As the market continues to head south so do the polo players. Players are heading south to Argentina for the Open in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Others are heading to California and Florida where everyone is a bit nervous as the bailout is not seen as a polo fund. Many clubs are working hard to ease the pain of the game. IPC is freezing prices for the second year in a row. In Sarasota they are also working to keep the game with a happy face as 2008 will be a year no one may miss.
It’s with a heavy heart we say so long to a very Cool person Mr. Lester Armour who headed north to run the big show in the sky for a while. We will miss him and say sorry to Red Armour and the family.
See ya.