Gay Polo league Day, Wellington

The Lexus International Gay Polo League Tournament gallops into Wellington with an exciting lineup of lively events for a weekend of camaraderie, inclusion and spectacular excitement for all. Held at the Patagones Polo Club, it is one of North America’s high goal polo venue drawing top GPL players and avid spectators from around the globe for a weekend of grand horseplay. For the second consecutive year, the tournament proudly supports the Elton John AIDS Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and impact, both on and off the field.

Chip McKenny, Gay Polo League Founder
The fabulous Founder, Chip McKenny

“Celebrating 15 years of the GPL event is an important happening for the league. The magnitude of this milestone propels us to create and produce the best GPL experience so far, by far. We look forward to bringing people together, enjoying the best of us and elevating awareness of the LGBTQ+ community,” said Chip McKenny, GPL Founder.

Karen Klopp, Chip McKenny and dashing polo player

“The Gay Polo League event is equally exciting for players and spectators – there are great polo matches and a knock-out tailgate competition.”

Karen Klopp and Ron Neal at International Gay Polo League Tournament
Tony Corey, KK & Ron Neal judging the tailgates.

As a fan and friend of this vibrant event, I feel that a little style advice is in order. It is a day choc full of delightful moments both on and off the field. CaraCara sets the right mood of bright pattern and styles. Since the event takes place on the beautiful fields of Patagones Polo Club, wedges, flats or block heeled are the order of the day – loving the new Stuart Weitzman sandals. Hats are also de rigeur, pick your fave style. Then add a little rainbow pop of color with the earrings and raffia tote, meant to hold your essentials – don’t forget the sunscreen!

This year, the tournament takes on an even more international flair, with sixteen accomplished players from across the globe forming four dynamic teams. They’ll take to the field next week to vie for two of GPL’s most coveted honors: the Senator Cup and the Founder’s Cup. Expect thrilling matches, spirited camaraderie, and plenty of champagne moments.

On Friday, April 25th, Polinti’s WIGSTOCK Party kicks off the weekend in style at the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame, featuring live music, dancing, an open bar, gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and unforgettable entertainment.

What to wear you ask? Vivacious fashion hits a high note for this affair! Bring your finest wig!

Dashing polo players from the 2024 International Gay Polo Tournament at Polinti’s WIGSTOCK Party

On Saturday, April 26th, the gates open early at 9:00 a.m. and tailgaters flock field-side to set up the most creative and elaborate-themed pageants to vie for the Best Tailgate Award.

Polo players and audience at 2025 Winners of International Gay Polo League Tournament
2025 Winners of International Gay Polo League Tournament
2025 Winner of International Gay Polo League Tournament

The Founder’s Cup Match begins at 1:00 p.m. followed by the Senator Cup Match at 3:00 p.m..  Spirits are running high as this year’s celebration will be sans mask in the Sunshine State.

Polo players from 2024 International Gay Polo League Tournament
Polo players from 2024 International Gay Polo League Tournament
Polo players from 2024 International Gay Polo League Tournament

When the dust settles, the fiercest of rivals become fast friends as the teams celebrate the grand international sport they all love. As Winston Churchill once proclaimed, “A polo handicap is a person’s ticket to the world.”

players from the 2024 International Gay Polo Tournament
players from the 2024 International Gay Polo Tournament
Gay Polo League, girl on horse with rainbow flag.
Tickets to 2025 International Gay Polo League Tournament

Karen Klopp and Hilary Dick are the Founders of What2WearWhere.com. We Take the Guesswork Out of Dressing, the Legwork out of Shopping and the Panic Out of Packing.™

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