Patróna Power

By Lisa Duncan

Father’s Day brought family, fierce competition, and two powerhouse patrónas to the field at the Santa Barbara Polo Club for the championship final of the 12 Goal Intra-Circuit Cup.

On one side was Brazilian patróna Alecia Seidler, owner of Quite on Z. On the other was Sarah Siegel-Magness, the driving force behind 90210, a respected competitor and mentor known for championing opportunities for women in polo.

After six hard-fought chukkers, Alecia’s Quite on Z captured the championship, defeating Sarah’s 90210 team 14-11.

“It feels incredible,” said Alecia after the victory. “I have dedicated so much to this!”

Quite on Z built a commanding lead before 90210 mounted a five-goal rally, turning the final chukkers into a fast and physical battle.

“Huge credit to 90210, it’s been an uphill battle all the way,” noted the announcer, adding, “Sarah is going after Hilario, they’re making everybody work extra hard today!”

Quite on Z stopped the surge in the sixth chukker, with Hilario Figueras delivering an MVP performance alongside teammates Santino Magrini and Marcos Alberdi.

The Father’s Day victory and winning MVP was meaningful for Hilario, son of polo legend Nacho Figueras and Delfina Blaquier.

“I’m proud of him today and most importantly for the years of hard work it took to get here,” said Delfina. Her inspiring message to kids was: “Don’t worry when things don’t go your way. The struggle is part of the learning. Keep working hard toward your goals and you will succeed.”

The trophy was presented by Henry Walker, but the final word belonged to patróna Alecia:

“If you can dream it, you can do it. With hard work, determination, dedication, and not giving up on your dream, you can make it come true.”

Quite the fierce Father’s Day finish, indeed.