A Night in White

By Lisa Duncan

“For me, it inspires kids to want to play. So it’s very important for me. That’s what this is all about tonight,” said Mindy Denson, whose passion for the Santa Barbara Polo Club’s Polo Training Center set the tone for a glamorous evening under the stars, devoted to the next generation of students. As guests in crisp white linen jackets and chic white floaty gowns gathered at the foot of the Santa Ynez Mountains, it became clear this was more than a summer soirée – it was an investment in the future of the school.

“We have a problem,” announced Emcee Rhys Williams, bringing the tableau to a pause before explaining that the faithful old school tractor had finally bit the dust. Before the appeal, Rhys kept the room laughing as bidding climbed on extraordinary items, including John Dellaverson’s coveted golf day at the legendary Riviera Country Club, won by Kyle Ashton; Mindy Denson’s Santa Ynez ranch getaway; Hollywood Bowl VIP box tickets to see ZZ Top and Cheap Trick, won by Chuck Lande and Henry Walker; Cybèle Jordan’s Rancho Remuda breeding to Sergeant Pepper; private lessons donated by Jesse Bray, Santi Wulff, and Mia Bray; and Melanja Jones’ unforgettable Field One stick-and-ball experience, claimed by Luis Escobar.

Then came the night’s most meaningful moment. As Rhys appealed for help replacing the old tractor, paddles began to rise. Dr. Madison Richardson, Jeep Holden, Henry Walker, Rhys Williams, and Andrew Bossom each stepped forward with generous gifts, inspiring others and, within minutes, the funds needed for a brand-new replacement had been raised.

Organized by Mindy Denson, Claudia Uretz, Melanja Jones, Leigh Brecheen, and Rhys, the elegant party featured iced cocktails overlooking the emerald fields, a silent auction, a buffet of tri-tip and salmon, and handmade empanadas by Matias Requena of Buena Onda. Among the guests and players enjoying the evening were Felipe Vercellino, Santiago Wulff, Luis Escobar, Justin Klentner and family, Carter Thicke, Sy and Eileen Zahedi, along with Chuck Lande, Hal Horton, Robert David, Jeff and Naima Scheraga, and Amza, Andrew, and Piers Bossom.

One elegant summer soirée. One shiny new tractor. Countless future players.