U.S. Polo Assn., the official sports brand of the United States Polo Association (USPA), celebrated the conclusion of the Pacific Coast Open 2026, held from August 14 to 30 at the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club in Carpinteria, California.
This historic championship showcases elite competition, California’s lifestyle, and the true spirit of polo. As one of the oldest polo tournaments in the world and the most prestigious championship in the western United States, the Pacific Coast Open highlighted the enduring connection between sport, style, and community. This year marks the second occasion that U.S. Polo Assn. served as the title sponsor and the ninth consecutive year of collaboration with the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club as the official apparel brand and stadium sponsor.
“The Pacific Coast Open represents the history, competitive excellence, and strong sense of community that define the sport of polo,” said Tim Kelly, president of the United States Polo Association. “Thanks to the ongoing support of U.S. Polo Assn. and the commitment of the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, this championship provides an important stage for exceptional players and horses while bringing more fans closer to the excitement and traditions of our sport.”
Founded in 1908, the Pacific Coast Open continues to be one of the most sought-after events in polo, attracting talented players and passionate fans for over two weeks of high-handicap competition. U.S. Polo Assn. Pacific Coast Open – Key Facts: Dates: August 14-30, 2026; Location: Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club, Carpinteria, California; Significance: one of the oldest polo tournaments in the world and the most prestigious championship in the western United States; Role of U.S. Polo Assn.: title sponsor, official apparel brand, and stadium sponsor; Milestone: nine consecutive years of collaboration with the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and two consecutive years as title sponsor of the Pacific Coast Open.
The final match featured La Karina against Klentner Ranch, with Klentner Ranch emerging victorious with a score of 16-9. Ignacio “Nachi” Viana of Klentner Ranch was named Most Valuable Player, and the best horse of the match was Dolfi Cautivadora. Proceeds from the event benefited Polo Training Center Santa Barbara and The Horse Project.
“The U.S. Polo Assn. Pacific Coast Open is one of the great championships of our sport, with a long history respected by players and fans around the world,” said J. Michael Prince, president and CEO of USPA Global. “Our continued collaboration with the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and the title sponsorship of this iconic tournament allows us to celebrate the legacy of polo on the West Coast while creating memorable experiences that connect people to the sport in an authentic way.”
Throughout the tournament, U.S. Polo Assn. enhanced the fan experience with official merchandise available at the club’s boutique and online, as well as signature cocktails served during the matches. Additionally, special hats celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States were distributed at the traditional divot stomp event. The tournament featured prominent competitors including Pipe Vercellino, Nachi Viana, Jesse Bray, Nico Escobar, and Lucas Escobar, among others.
U.S. Polo Assn. remains committed to supporting the polo community with charity contributions. During the final awards ceremony, donations were made on behalf of the finalists to local organizations connected to polo and equestrian activities. “Year after year, the Pacific Coast Open showcases the best of our sport, and U.S. Polo Assn. continues to be an invaluable partner helping to enhance the experience for both players and spectators,” stated Henry Walker, president of the Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club.
With the completion of another successful edition of the U.S. Polo Assn. Pacific Coast Open, the tournament cements its status as a premier championship and a celebration of the enduring traditions of polo.
Source: www.infobae.com
