Small Stirrups

“It’s all about appreciation, sportsmanship, loving and caring for your horse,” said Mindy Denson, summing up the spirit of Saturday’s children’s tournament at the Polo Training Center.

And there was plenty to love.

Tiny tots, little riders, proud parents and patient ponies filled the field for an afternoon that felt less like high-goal polo and more like the world’s cutest family affair. The youngest riders competed in the leadline/walk division, followed by children in trot/canter, while the more experienced youngsters picked up the pace – with a few even trying a little galloping.

Perhaps the sweetest sight of all was seeing some of polo’s professional players trading competition for dad duty. Jesse Bray helped his daughter along on a leadline pony, while Santi Wulff and Pipe Vercellino were also out there with their daughters. For one afternoon, it was less about goals and handicaps and more about tiny boots, pony reins, and a very charming daddy-daughter day.

The tournament was organized by Mindy Denson and Rhys Williams, who kept the emphasis on encouragement, horsemanship, and fun.

For the first time, the young riders got to choose their own prizes – from new backpacks to colorful horse figurines – which may have been nearly as exciting as the riding itself.

A sweet afternoon of ponies, parents and future polo players.

Sightings

Billie Eilish played officiant Saturday at San Ysidro Ranch, hosting brother Finneas O’Connell’s star-studdedwedding to Claudia Sulewski. Guests included Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard, Nina Dobrev, Jason Sudeikis and Emma Chamberlain. The couple’s dogs, Peaches and Moose, served as “flower dogs”…Also turning heads at the Ranch wedding were Hailey and Justin Bieber, with Hailey arriving in a vivid lime-green vintage Versace gown from the early 2000s. The halter-neck, floor-length look – sourced from Raffe Vintage – just happened to match the SYR green chairs and lush landscaping, couture camouflage.…Word across the pond is that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry want nine bedrooms – the very same number as their Riven Rock estate – on a wish list that includes a film studio, with a reported “gargantuan budget.” Apparently, you can take the Duchess out of Montecito, but not the Montecito out of the Duchess.

From Richard and Friends to all of you……Pip! Pip!