Famous American Polo Players

Thomas Hitchcock Jr. was a renowned American polo player and aviator. He excelled in both sports, achieving great success and recognition for his talents. Hitchcock's skill and passion for polo led him to be inducted posthumously into the Polo Hall of Fame. Additionally, his involvement in aviation showcased his adventurous spirit and dedication to serving his country during World War II. Tragically, his life was cut short in an air crash, but his legacy as a skilled polo player and aviator lives on in the annals of sports history.

Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney was a multifaceted individual with a diverse professional portfolio. He excelled as an American businessman, film producer, government official, writer, and philanthropist. Known for his passion for polo playing, he also gained recognition as the owner of a substantial stable of Thoroughbred racehorses. His career spanned various industries, showcasing his versatility and dedication to making a significant impact in both the business world and the realm of entertainment and sports.

Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Price Ramsey was a distinguished United States Army officer known for his leadership during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II. He was recognized for leading the final American cavalry charge in military history, showcasing his tactical skills and bravery on the battlefield. Ramsey's strategic acumen and guerrilla warfare experience played a crucial role in the resistance efforts against the Japanese forces, earning him a reputation as a skilled and respected military leader.

Stewart Iglehart was a multi-talented athlete who excelled in ice hockey and polo. He showcased his skills at Yale University, where he was known as one of the top defensemen in college hockey. Iglehart represented the United States in international competitions, winning a gold medal at the World Ice Hockey Championships. Transitioning to polo, he became a highly rated player, winning multiple championships and representing the US on numerous occasions. Post-retirement, he co-owned a cattle ranch in Florida and was honored with inductions into the US Hockey Hall of Fame and the Polo Hall of Fame.

Nicolas Ezequiel Roldan is a prominent American polo player and model with a successful professional career. Known for his exceptional skills on the polo field, Roldan has competed in numerous high-profile tournaments and has earned a reputation as one of the top polo players in the world. In addition to his accomplishments in polo, Roldan has also ventured into the world of modeling, showcasing his talent and versatility in various campaigns and photo shoots. His dedication and passion for both sports and modeling have solidified his status as a respected figure in the industry.

Michael Grace Phipps was a prominent figure in American business, known for his success as a businessman and owner/breeder of racehorses. He also excelled in the sport of polo, earning a reputation as a champion player. Phipps made significant contributions as a philanthropist, using his resources to support various charitable causes. Throughout his professional life, he demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence and success in multiple fields, leaving a lasting impact on the worlds of business, sports, and philanthropy.

Carlos Gracida was a highly accomplished Mexican-American polo player who achieved a 10-goal handicap at a young age. He was a prominent member of the Gracida polo dynasty and had a successful career spanning over two decades. Gracida won numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Argentinian Triple Crown, the US Open, and the British Open Gold Cup multiple times. He was known for his exceptional skills on the field and his expertise as an instructor, teaching polo to celebrities and royalty. Gracida's legacy in the polo world remains unparalleled, earning him a well-deserved place in the Museum of Polo and Hall of Fame.

Foxhall Parker Keene was a versatile sportsman and successful businessman known for his contributions to thoroughbred horse racing, polo, golf, tennis, and automobile racing. He excelled in polo, winning the gold medal at the 1900 Summer Olympics and being rated the best polo player in the U.S. for eight years. Keene also competed in golf, tennis, and automobile racing, showcasing his diverse athletic abilities. He was a founding member of the National Steeplechase Association and made significant contributions to the sports world through his involvement in various disciplines.

Mike Azzaro is an accomplished American professional polo player known for his aggressive forward style of play. He has held the sport's highest handicap of 10 goals for over a decade and has received numerous awards, including the Polo Excellence Award. Azzaro has played for various prestigious teams and has been a key player in winning multiple U.S. Open tournaments. With a strong track record and multiple MVP titles, he continues to be a prominent figure in high-goal polo, showcasing his talent and skill on the field.

Cecil Smith was a notable figure in the American ranching and polo communities. He was recognized for his expertise and contributions to the ranching industry, known for his dedication to raising livestock and managing ranch operations efficiently. In the world of polo, Smith was a skilled player, admired for his talent on the field and his sportsmanship. His professional life was characterized by a strong work ethic, passion for ranching, and success in the competitive sport of polo.