Polo matches, Clydesdales celebrate village's 50th
A polo match is a fitting way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Barrington Hills.
"It promotes our equestrian way of life," said event co-chair Karen Selman.
The Kalaway Landowners Cup, to be held Saturday at the Oakwood Farms Polo Field, is a thank-you to the more than 300 landowners with horse trails on their properties. Linked together the trails give Barrington Hills about 200 miles of horse path.
The landowners get free admission and lunch Saturday. The day of polo is open to all; in fact, organizers are hoping the event grows and draws people from all over.
This is the third year of the event, and with the village's 50th anniversary, and the Riding Club of Barrington Hills' 70th anniversary, the cup will be bigger than ever, Selman said.
The event was conceived by Barrington Polo Club President John Rosene three years ago and last year was renamed in honor of Ben Kalaway, one of the village's most beloved horse riders. Kalaway died in a 2005 auto crash, driving a fellow horseback rider home on Route 68.
Rosene said he wants the event to continue to grow, and added that tailgate spots are still available for people who would like to bring their own picnic. Concessions also will be available for purchase.
The featured event is a battle of the sexes. The men and women's teams have split the matches the first two years, so expect some light-hearted taunting.
The polo club is almost evenly split between men and women, Rosene said.
Rosene said a men vs. women is rarely seen in American polo. But it's not who wins or loses that matters.
"Polo is not only a sport, it's a kind of pageant; a big party," Rosene said.
The event raised about $10,000 last year for the riding club, and is constantly growing, Rosene said. Part of the event's charm is tailgating, which shows a variety of styles. One spot could have women wearing elaborate hats sipping drinks in fine crystal glasses. Their neighbors could be sipping beer wearing tank tops and cutoffs.
"You get to know the people next to you and pretty soon the party expands," Rosene said. "It's very down home and very fun."
New this year is a "shopper's midway" featuring artists, designers and vendors, along with Dr. Pollina's Kids Kamp with face painting for kids. The Lake Run Clydesdales will also tow a bright red beer wagon giving rides and the Fox River Valley Pony Club will demonstrate their skills
If you go
What: Kalaway Landowners Cup
When: Doors open a 11 a.m., gates noon, Saturday
Where: Oakwood Farms Polo Field, 250 Deepwood Road, west of Batewood Road, Barrington Hills
Admission: $15, free for children 12 and younger
Tailgate spots: $75; prizes for best tailgates.
Call: (847) 854-1415 to reserve a tailgate spot