For the last 40 years, the name Memo Gracida has been associated with greatness in the polo world. Gracida and his extended family are world renowned polo players originally from Mexico City. He achieved a 10 goal handicap in 1982 and held that handicap well into his 40s. Memo still holds the record for winning the most US Open championships; 16 in total. A few years ago, Memo and his wife, Meghan, decided to make California their permanent home and set out to build a first class polo training facility in Santa Ynez. La Herradura provides polo for all levels, coaching and training directly with Memo, and a selection of high quality polo ponies and professional players to help you take your game to the next level. Recently, OC Polo went on a road trip to Santa Ynez for a weekend of polo at La Herradura. Click here, to read more about our weekend at Memo’s,Happy Trails,
ALLIE BUSHONGHow did you get into polo & how long have you been playing?I started working at OC Polo 2 years ago when I was 13 yrs old after I met Heather, Bekah, and Kelli through cattle sorting at my barn. I started to stick and ball with Bekah and Kelli about 7 months later and then I joined the IS team that fall. I have been playing for a little over a year. Tell us what it's like to play and work at OC Polo?It is an amazing experience getting to play and work at OC polo. The dynamic is always welcoming and everyone there was very encouraging while I was learning to play. I am so grateful that I get to work at my favorite place to be. Share something you've learned from your coaches that you think of often?I have never been the strongest hitter, so something I will always remember is that most of the time the strongest offense comes from having the strongest defense. Man first, ball second has tried to be my go to. What are your goals for playing polo?This year I am a sophomore so my biggest polo goal is to play in college. I want to learn to play harder, faster polo. Next year I am looking forward to playing on the IS team and participating in PCAL
ELLA HORTONHow did you get into polo & how long have you been playing?My aunt taught me how to ride and she introduced me to Heather! I have been playing for about 8 years.Tell us what it's like to play and work at OC Polo?I love working and playing at OC Polo. It’s like a big family and I really enjoy working with the horses and people.Share something you've learned from your coaches that you think of often?Heather and Denny have always taught me that communicating while playing is extremely important. What are your goals for playing polo?My goal is to play polo in college. I am looking forward to moving to college (also sad to leave OC) and hopefully playing on an intercollegiate polo team!
A NOTE FROM DGNo On Prop 15
Polo friends, we need your help. Normally, we don’t like to mix politics and polo. But Prop 15 has us really concerned. If it passes, it will impose a massive property tax increase on the very businesses struggling to survive the worst economic crisis in modern times. Just in our little polo world, it will have a huge impact. The property taxes at the club will skyrocket, as will the price of hay, shavings, and manure removal.The majority of the tax burden created by Prop 15 will fall on small businesses and consumers through higher prices on rents, goods and services. The proposition purports to provide funds for schools, but it is estimated that only 25% of the $12 billion annual tax increase will go to schools. The balance will be retained by other government agencies, without any review. That is why small businesses, farmers, social justice organizations, and taxpayer advocates across California oppose this massive tax increase. We hope you will join us in voting NO on Prop 15. But more importantly, do your own research to find out how Prop 15 will impact your life and livelihood. For more information see www.noonprop15.org
